SRT Rope Systems and Throw Bags 3

Question 1

Which throw bag deployment technique is best when the victim is close and time is critical?

Accepted Answer

Coiled underhand with bag held in non-throwing hand

Answer

Overhand throw with full arm swing

Answer

Underhand throw leading the victim slightly upstream

Answer

Sidearm throw at water level

Question 2

When rescuing a victim in a hydraulic (hole), a throw bag should be aimed:

Accepted Answer

Just downstream of the hydraulic's boil line

Answer

Directly into the center of the recirculating water

Answer

Upstream, above the hydraulic's foamy face

Answer

At the victim's head to get their attention

Question 3

What is the recommended minimum number of shore-based personnel for a live bait rope rescue?

Accepted Answer

3 rescuers — one swimming, two managing the rope

Answer

1 rescuer and 1 victim handler

Answer

2 rescuers — one swimming, one belaying

Answer

4 rescuers — two swimming, two on shore

Question 4

What is 'rope entrapment' in swiftwater rescue?

Accepted Answer

A rope looping around a victim's limb or body part and pinning them underwater under current force

Answer

A rope becoming tangled in the throw bag during deployment

Answer

A rope snagging on an underwater obstacle before reaching the victim

Answer

A rope becoming knotted at the anchor point

Question 5

A throw bag rope rated at a 'working load' should be used at what fraction of its minimum breaking strength (MBS)?

Accepted Answer

1/10 (10%)

Answer

1/2 (50%)

Answer

1/5 (20%)

Answer

1/15 (6.6%)

Question 6

When is it appropriate to cut a throw rope during a rescue?

Accepted Answer

When a rescuer or victim is being pulled toward a hazard and cannot release the rope

Answer

When the rope becomes tangled in tree branches

Answer

When the victim's weight is too heavy to manage

Answer

When the rope contacts the water and becomes slippery

Question 7

What is the purpose of a 'pigtail' or 'bite' attached to a throw bag anchor point during a shore-based rescue?

Accepted Answer

To create a releasable attachment that can be cut or unclipped under load

Answer

To allow the rope to slide freely for a longer pendulum swing

Answer

To mark the anchor point with a visible indicator

Answer

To extend the effective rope length beyond the throw bag