This guide establishes a recommended procedure for utilizing ice awls as a self rescue technique on ice.

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

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.

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.

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

1.1 This guide covers the self-rescue technique on ice utilizing the ice awl.

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

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.