I've been through too... I came close to not making it out. Boots or NO BOOTS if the water is over your head, you've got big problems. I knew I was going in after my dog. When I hit the water, all I had on was a turtleneck and underwear. After I got the dog out I was able to keep breaking the ice to get to a point where the ice would support enough of me to get from my waist up on the ice. From there, I was able to kick a leg up and roll. I rolled until I was well away from the thin ice.

For $5.99, there is no excuse in the world not to have a set of ice picks with you. I would have been out in no time at all if I had them that day. Also have a rope with you, mine never leaves the sled... This also came in handy 2 years ago on a cove on the river... Most of you have seen that video :rolleyes: