Anyone ever try this? I’m kinda skeptical only because he falls straight down. I would likely have stuff tied to me and a backpack. Also one leg first then fall to one side. It sounds like good advice though.
Have you seen anything more like ‘Northwoods’ scenario?
YouTube link

I have never fallen in so I will listen to hear what others say about their experience. He does get out so he does seem to know what he’s doing. However, I think you are right in that everyone’s experience will be different. A person may have to remove a pack or waist belt hooked to a sled first to get out.

I fell in many years ago. One of the most painful experiences I've ever had, luckily was able to stand on the bottom and just keep my head out of the water. The biggest problem for me was the almost 1 mile walk back to the house to get the cold wet (frozen) clothes off.

There is a Youtube video about US Marines taking the Polar Plunge in Norway (November 2019) that illustrates the process of getting out of the backpack first, etc.

his video seems in line with others, get over the shock until you are breathing normal, then attempt to lay on ice as you kick, crawl away to safe ice before standing

in winter my backpack would only have my sleeping bag, stove, teapot, some freeze dried food and drink, IOW, all lightweight and some even less dense than water, so it wouldn't be the problem a summer pack would be

Cool thanks! I’ll Google it