What should you do if you break through the ice while snowmobiling?

Utilizing ice picks to climb back onto the ice is the correct approach if you break through the ice while snowmobiling. Ice picks provide you with the necessary grip and leverage to pull yourself up onto the ice, which is crucial for rescuing yourself from a potentially dangerous situation. This method increases your chances of successfully getting back onto the ice, where you can find safety.

Remaining in the water or staying on the snowmobile can lead to hypothermia or make the situation worse, as the risk of the snowmobile sinking or breaking through the ice further increases. Kicking off the snowmobile and attempting to swim might not be practical given the cold water temperatures, and it could exhaust you quickly without offering a clear path to safety. Being equipped with ice picks, however, gives you a tool for climbing out effectively and safely.