3.1 This guide establishes a recommended procedure for utilizing an ice staff as a self-rescue technique on ice.

3.2 All persons who are identified as ice rescuers shall meet the requirements of this guide.

3.3 This guide will assist government agencies; state, local, or regional organizations; fire departments, rescue teams and others who are responsible for establishing a minimum performance for personnel who respond to ice emergencies.

3.4 This guide is not intended to be used in isolation, but as a component guide acknowledging many skills and techniques needed to respond at a cold water and ice emergency.

3.5 An ice rescuer shall be wearing an immersion suit, drysuit with PFD, or equivalent cold water protection and buoyancy to perform these rescues.

3.6 An ice rescuer shall carry a set of ice awls along with the ice staff as a backup technique.

1.1 This guide describes the self-rescue technique on ice utilizing an ice staff.

1.2 This guide is one in a series of self-rescue techniques for the ice rescuer.

1.3 Individuals who will operate in the cold water or ice rescue setting need to be aware of the equipment and physical requirements necessary to be able to perform all identified objectives and necessary skills in the setting.