What is a vital piece of equipment for rescue in swift water?

A buoy line is a crucial piece of equipment for swift water rescue because it serves as a safety tether for rescuers and victims alike. When working in swift water environments, the current can be unpredictable and powerful, making it challenging to reach someone in distress. A buoy line, often equipped with a buoyant object at the end, can be thrown to the person in need of rescue, allowing them to secure it for stability and support.

This piece of equipment allows rescuers to maintain a safe distance while providing assistance. It also helps prevent the rescuer from being swept away by the current since they can anchor themselves while extending a lifeline to the victim. Furthermore, a buoy line enhances communication and coordination between the rescuer and others on the scene, which is vital in ensuring a successful rescue operation in hazardous conditions.

In contrast, while the other options—rescue sleds, handheld radios, and whistles—have their uses in specific rescue situations, they do not provide the same immediate, direct support that a buoy line does in swift water scenarios. The focus of swift water rescue operations relies heavily on the ability to establish secure points of connection, making the buoy line indispensable.