Rope Systems & Throw Bag Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real RRC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Rope Systems & Throw Bag Techniques flashcards as text
In a 'live bait' rescue, the rope is attached to which point on the rescuer's body?
Answer: Waist, using a quick-release PFD tow belt
The rope is attached to a quick-release tow belt at the rescuer's waist so the rescuer can swim to the victim and instantly shed the rope if entangled.
What is the primary safety hazard when using a fixed rope (line) for assisted wading rescues in swift current?
Answer: The rope can pin a rescuer against a submerged obstacle if they fall
A taut fixed line can act as a trap, holding a fallen rescuer underwater against a submerged rock or strainer where current keeps them pinned.
What does the term 'rope entrapment' mean in a swiftwater rescue context?
Answer: A person becoming caught or pinned by a rope under hydraulic pressure
Rope entrapment occurs when hydraulic forces trap a swimmer against a rope stretched across current, which can be more dangerous than the original hazard.
A 'vector pull' technique applies force to a tensioned rope perpendicular to its length. What is its practical use in river rescue?
Answer: To shift a pinned boat or object using minimal force by deflecting the midpoint of the rope
Applying sideways force to the midpoint of a tensioned rope creates a large mechanical advantage that can un-pin wrapped boats or move heavy loads with less effort.
How should rescue ropes be stored after use in river operations to maintain their performance characteristics?
Answer: Loosely coiled, rinsed with fresh water, and stored away from UV, heat, and chemicals
Polypropylene and nylon ropes degrade when exposed to UV light, heat, and chemicals, so rinsing and dry storage in a dark, cool location extends service life.
Under which specific river condition should a rescuer avoid using a throw bag and instead prioritize a wading or boat rescue?
Answer: When the victim is unconscious and cannot grasp or hold the rope
An unconscious victim cannot grip and hold a throw rope, making a throw bag rescue ineffective; contact rescue by wading or boat is required to secure the victim directly.
What is the correct action if a throw bag misses its target and the rope falls short of the victim?
Answer: Quickly repack or flake the rope and attempt a second throw
A rapid repack and second throw is the safest and most effective response; wading in may endanger the rescuer and a second bag from downstream is a valid follow-up but only if another rescuer is positioned there.