Here is some important information to make your ice fishing trip safer and more enjoyable.

Never Go Alone If Possible

Let your friends know exactly where you are going and when you will return.

Wear Layered Clothing

1. Make sure you know how to dress for cold weather by using a layering system. By layering you make it easier to remove or put clothes back on if you are getting too hot or too cold. Your initial layer should be thermal underwear that draws away moisture.Your next  layer should be insulating like fleece, wool or flannel . Your last or outside layer should be windproof and waterproof, your jacket should be a down-filled coat with a hood.
2. Remember to wear a warm wool, fleece or knitted hat. Avoid cotton because it does not hold heat well, especially when wet.

Hands and Feet

1. Boots hould be insulated, waterproof or rubber boots.
2. Wear liner socks plus a pair of thick wool or non-cotton socks.
3. Wear your boots loosely fitting to avoid cutting off circulation of blood to your lower extremities.
4. Make sure to wear neoprene or waterproof nylon mittens to protect your hands from the icy water as you land the big catch. 

Items to Carry

1. a small bag of sand or kitty litter to sprinkle around your ice hole for better traction.
2. An additional set of dry clothes and socks in case you get wet.
3. High energy snacks and warm drinks to fuel you through the cold day.
4. Rope to use in case your friend falls through the ice.
5. First aid kit in case you need to treat a minor injury.
6. Matches stored in a waterproof container or 35mm film canister in case you need to start a fire.
7. Home-made ice awls carried in an easy to reach outer pocket.
8. PFD seat cushion to use as a seat or flotation in case you fall through the ice.
9. Hand and foot warmers.

Watch Where You Are Going

1. Never fish in an area where the ice is less than 4 inches thick.
2. Avoid areas where there are feeder streams and springs.
3. Stay away from areas that are dark, honeycombed or porous ice.

You Fall Through the Ice!

1. If you fall through the ice, don't panic, remain calm.
2. Use your ice awls to pull yourself up onto the safe ice.
3. No ice awls? Try "swimming out," which lets your body rise and allows you to get onto firm ice.
4. Use your legs to kick behind you to keep from going  under.
5. If you can't get to safety, call for help. Yell as loud as you can.
6. Slip your "loose boots" off to make treading water easier.
7. Keep your clothes on as they will insulate you from the icy water.
8. Once on the ice, remain low and ensure you distibute your weight over as much of the ice surface area as possible.
9. If additional people fall in, always remember to use Reach (stick fishing, pole), Throw (rope, PFD, anything that floats), Row (row or push a boat), Go (call for help).

Know When Enough is Enough

1. If you become wet, immediately change into your dry clothes and seek out warmth .
2. If you feel cold, it's because you are cold. Head for home .
3. Keep an eye out  for frostbite (pale skin on exposed flesh). Seek medical assistance.
4. Watch out for signs of  hypothermia (shivering, loss of judgment). Treat it with warm fluids, dry clothes, a blanket and warm shelter.
5. Stop fishing if you become tired or cold. Remember that there will always be plenty of other days to go ice fishing.