Virtually every five/six gallon bucket we carry has a couple of circular ridges around the bucket near where the handle attaches. This is perfect storage for 50′ of 1/4 inch nylon rope which can save a buddy’s life!
I drill a 5/16 hole thru the bucket between the ridges, thread one end of the rope thru, slide a washer on the rope and secure with an overhand knot. The line is then wrapped around the bucket and duct taped–ready for action if needed.
Over the past 10 years I’ve used this TWICE to fish folks out. Rescue must be IMMEDIATE if over the victim’s head. Instruct the victim to invert bucket to trap air.
If the victim can touch bottom, you can negotiate before dumping all of your gear or fish out of the bucket and throw it to him. What is rescue worth ? A couple of jigging Rapalas ? An FL-18 ? The rescuer is in a strong position to negotiate because the victim already feels like an idiot (I know…already have had my own bucket thrown to me once)
If the ice is too slick to allow traction to extricate the victim , poke your auger thru at a 45 degree angle and secure rope with a bowline knot.
One key to rescue–and self rescue– is minimizing the angle your body has to the surface of “safe” ice try to get as flat as possible, spreading out body weight.
If you can effect self-rescue and other anglers are nearby, bark like a seal as you slide up on the ice, explaining you always wondered what it was like to be a seal once you’re safe. This will convince onlookers that you’re simply nuts and not an idiot (Did this once, too…sparking a debate on whether I was nuts or just an idiot)
Remember: two inches of clear ice is considered adequate to support a large Korbel perfect brandy manhattan.
Lt. Ted Peck BFD (retired)
*certified in ice, swift water rescue and ice diving
* BS in BS, Whatsamatta U. 
