Carry a fifty foot section of heavy nylon rope, never fish without a partner, carry a long 12 foot pole, carry a set of ice spikes tied with a string around my neck and maybe even a life preserver or cushion in my gear. This protection is for myself and other times it could be used to assist someone else in trouble on the ice. Generally on my first fishing trip on the ice the most important thing I do for myself is gain confidence in the ice condition. I generally spend time watching the ice form on the reservoir a week before I attempt my first excursion. I generally know on my local reservoirs where the first ice is formed both from current observation and past years observations and experience.
Nothing is perfect, therefore proceed with caution.
Besides any of the safety devices mentioned above, consideration then must go to dressing accordingly to the weather conditions to remain comfortable on the ice. Basically dress warm in layers and wear insulated waterproof boots. I would rather be dressed too warmly and shed layers than not have enough insulation and protection to start the trip. Over the years I have progressed to using a snow suit and layering underwear and other clothing underneath. I hang around my neck in which I place a Jone hand warmer or other chemical heat device.