Safety Ropes, Lines & Life Rings

This category covers rescue and safety cordage for man-overboard and emergency situations: throw lines, heaving lines, safety/jack lines for clipping on, and life rings (lifebuoys) for throwing to someone in the water.

A heaving or throw line is a compact, buoyant rope bag designed to be thrown accurately to someone in the water – keep one within reach of the helm, not stowed away, since seconds matter in a man-overboard situation. Safety lines (jack lines) run along the deck for crew to clip a harness tether onto while moving forward, keeping you attached to the boat in rough conditions rather than relying on balance alone. A life ring (lifebuoy) should be mounted somewhere it can be released instantly, ideally with a floating line or drogue attached so it doesn’t drift away from a casualty before they can reach it, and many boats fit one with a light or dan buoy for visibility in poor conditions.

Check all of this kit periodically for UV damage and chafe – safety lines and throw ropes see harsh conditions and deteriorate faster than most other rope on board.

Frequently asked questions

Where should I keep a throw line on my boat?

Within easy reach of the helm or cockpit, not stowed in a locker – in a man-overboard situation you need to deploy it in seconds.

What’s the difference between a heaving line and a safety/jack line?

A heaving line is thrown to someone in the water; a jack line is rigged along the deck for crew to clip a harness tether onto while moving around underway.