Which tool should be used to probe ice thickness before stepping onto the ice?

• A. Use a long pole, auger, or chisel to probe thickness at several locations before stepping onto the ice; avoid unknown or suspect areas.
• B. Walk onto the ice and test by stepping cautiously as you go.
• C. Rely on the ice color alone.
• D. Test thickness only at a single location.

Answer: (A)

Probing ice thickness with a long pole, auger, or chisel before stepping onto the ice lets you verify actual strength rather than guess, because ice can be uneven and vary a lot over short distances. Checking several locations away from shore and suspected weak spots helps you build a realistic picture of overall safety, since currents, inlets, and underwater features can create thin or weak patches. Use the tool to measure thickness at multiple spots and only proceed if the measured depth meets or exceeds the minimum safe thickness for your activity; if it’s uncertain or too thin, retreat and reassess. Relying on ice color or stepping to test is not reliable, and testing at a single location can miss dangerous pockets, so probing first is essential for safe travel on ice.