Which method is commonly used when entering ice on foot?

• A. Move quickly across ice
• B. Test thickness with a probe or auger
• C. Jump onto ice from a boat
• D. Rely on a distant rescue only

Answer: (B)

Entering ice on foot hinges on knowing the ice is thick and solid enough before you step onto it. The best method is testing thickness directly with a probe or ice auger. By probing multiple spots you get an actual thickness reading and can assess the ice quality along your path, spotting weak layers, slush, or honeycombing that aren’t obvious from the surface. This hands-on check is safer than guessing based on appearance. If you find the ice thinner than what’s considered safe or see cracks, slush, or moving water, you should not proceed. Relying on fast movement across the surface isn’t protective, and jumping from a boat or waiting for a distant rescue ignores the immediate danger. Using a probe or auger to verify thickness is the practical, reliable approach when entering ice on foot.