TCT,
With such a prolonged cold spell gripping our region and lots of frozen rivers, I think that this short video illustrates a very real danger of winter paddling. Although the water in the video is flat, it has a decent current. Imagine if someone had tipped and were out of their boat in this water. If they don't get swept under the ice shelf, they might be able to grab the top of the shelf with their hands and arms. But their legs and feet will continue to be pushed by the current. Imagine trying to swing their legs back against the current. It would be very difficult. The ice could also break off as the swimmer tried to haul him/herself out of the water, making self-rescue even more perilous. So be very careful once the temperatures warm and the call of the river beckons but before all the ice has melted.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMpuu61b0gM&feature=youtu.be
jp