Good as commercial rescue equipment is, it is frequently not at hand, or found to have been vandalised when a drowning emergency arises. However, as we show here, for just around £5 everyone can afford to have their own rescue line.

All you need is a 4 or 5 litre plastic container with a handle, 20 plus metres of rope and some Velcro. We bought the rope for 20p per metre and the Velcro for £1. Total cost £5.00 .

Tie one end of the rope to the container's handle then coil it neatly and snap some Velcro around the coil and the container (top picture). It is essential that the rope is not tangled should you need to use it. Tie a loop for your hand at the free end.

In an emergency undo the Velcro, loop the free end of the rope over one hand together with half of the coil (keeping your hand open so that the rope can run out) and throw the container with the other half of the coil. Putting an inch of water in the container will make throwing easier and more accurate (bottom picture). Try some practice throws.


This idea is NOT intended to replace commercial equipment but, instead, to offer everyone a personal rescue line. If you find yourself in an emergency where it can be used it is usually much safer to rescue from the bank and without direct physical contact. We suggest that everyone who engages in recreational activities in, or near water, carries rescue equipment. An investment of £5 and a little practice may save someone's life.