My buddy and I cant wait our first time on the ice. Just wanna make sure to be safe about it.

DRILL TEST HOLES BEFORE YOU RISK YOUR LIFE.  NEVER BE THE FIRST ONE OUT IF YOU ARE NEW TO THIS.  HAVE ICE ESCAPES IN YOUR SLEVES - SPIKES YOU CAN CLIMB OUT WITH IF YO U GO IN.  HAVE CRAMP ONS FOR YOUR BOOTS.  YOU CAN SPLIT YOUR HEAD OPEN ON THE ICE.  DONT GO ALONE.  LET SOMEONE KNOW WHERE YOU ARE GOING.  HAVE WATERPROOF PANTS SO YOU CAN KNEEL.  STAY AWAY FROM INLETS/FEEDER CREEKS.  GOOD LUCK BOYS.

Get two of these, https://www.boltdepot.com/Product-Details.aspx?product=2849,
Tie about 12-16" of heavy twine under the hex head and knot tightly, and put them around your neck and keep them there the entire time you are on the ice.  If you fall in, they will help you get out or at the very least, keep you from slipping on the edge of the ice until someone rescues you (hopefully).  
 
 

http://www.fishusa.com/Product/Eagle-Claw-Retractable-Safety-Ice-Picks
 
 
http://www.fishusa.com/Product/Frabill-Safety-Kit

Thanks great advice just what I was looking for.

When and where are you planning on going? I'm sure depending on when and where your planning on going someone on here will be going and can help you out. I've meet a few new guys and showed them the fun of hard water fishing.

As soon as its safe we will be going to pymatuning

Thinking about going Saturday or Sunday

Many good tips for ucal357 guys. Don't forget to have a complete change of clothes! Having a "space blanket" in the glove compartment isn't a bad idea either.