For those of you who are looking for a pair of safety ice picks. I recommend these
http://www.angelguardproducts.com/rescue/pickoflife/pickoflife.htmThe cover guards are spring loaded. A little on the pricey side but they are ultra sturdy, and the rope used is pretty long and also pretty strong. I haven't tested but it seems like it would be strong enough to pull someone out of the water. Not in any way affiliated with the company, just passing along info as I have never seen anyone with them.