Which statement about ice rescue equipment is true?

• A. Crampons are used to provide traction on ice.
• B. Cutting tools are unnecessary.
• C. Immersion suits replace PFDs.
• D. Tether lines are never used.

Answer: (A)

Traction on ice is essential for safe movement and effective access during rescues. Crampons provide that traction by adding spikes that bite into ice and packed snow, giving rescuers a stable grip, enabling them to move, position lines, and reach a trapped or submerged victim without slipping. This makes crampons the correct option because the ability to stay upright on slick ice directly impacts the speed and safety of the operation.

Cutting tools are often needed to breach ice, free a victim, or cut through ropes or debris encountered during a rescue, so saying they’re unnecessary isn’t accurate.

Immersion suits offer warmth and some buoyancy, but they do not universally replace a personal flotation device; PFDs or life jackets are still selected based on the situation and are a standard safety component.

Tether lines are used to control movements, establish anchors, and manage rescuer safety on ice; saying they’re never used isn’t correct.

So, the statement about crampons providing traction on ice is the true one.