RRC Rope Systems & Throw Bag Techniques

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a throw bag in swiftwater rescue?

Accepted Answer

To deliver a rope quickly to a swimmer in distress

Answer

To anchor a rescuer to the riverbank

Answer

To mark hazards in the river channel

Answer

To tow rescue watercraft

Question 2

When throwing a rescue bag to a victim, what should the rescuer always hold onto before releasing the throw?

Accepted Answer

The free end of the rope

Answer

The bag itself

Answer

The carabiner at the rope end

Answer

A whistle to signal the victim

Question 3

What type of rope construction is most commonly specified for rescue throw bags because it minimizes stretch and floats on water?

Accepted Answer

Polypropylene braid

Answer

Twisted nylon

Answer

Static kernmantle polyester

Answer

Dynamic climbing rope

Question 4

What is the 'pendulum effect' in a throw bag rescue?

Accepted Answer

The rope swinging the victim into an eddy or the shore as current acts on the rope

Answer

The oscillation of the throw bag mid-flight affecting accuracy

Answer

The bouncing of the rope off rocks downstream

Answer

The twisting of the rope caused by water turbulence

Question 5

What is the recommended maximum functional rope length for a standard river rescue throw bag used in Class III–IV conditions?

Accepted Answer

25 meters (80 feet)

Answer

15 meters (50 feet)

Answer

40 meters (130 feet)

Answer

50 meters (165 feet)

Question 6

When repacking a throw bag for rapid redeployment, what is the correct method?

Accepted Answer

Stuff the rope loosely into the bag so it feeds freely

Answer

Coil the rope neatly in figure-eight loops

Answer

Daisy-chain the rope before inserting

Answer

Wet the rope first to reduce friction

Question 7

What body position should a shore-based rescuer adopt before throwing a rescue bag to maximize stability and pulling power?

Accepted Answer

Staggered athletic stance with knees bent, leaning back

Answer

Standing upright with feet together

Answer

Kneeling with both knees on the ground

Answer

Sitting at the water's edge with legs extended