Surf Lifeguard Skills - Short tying a rescue tube

Learn to short tie a rescue tube for surf lifeguarding: Essential for rock rescues, this technique prevents the lanyard from snagging on rocks, ensuring safety.

Step 1 of 10

Short tying a rescue tube

Short tying a rescue tube is a skill a surf lifeguard should know if participating in any rock rescue training
The long lanyard of the rescue tube may snag on rocks in surging swell, risking entrapment
Short tying your rescue tube ensures it remains clear while navigating on and off rocks

Step 2 of 10

Short tying a rescue tube

Ensure the rescue tube lanyard is clear, knot free and in good condition
Lay the rescue tube on the ground and begin at the base of the rescue tube, where the rope connects

Step 3 of 10

With two hands, form an overhand loop holding it in place with your thumb

Step 4 of 10

Using your free hand, reach through the loop and pull the rope partially through to form another loop

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Repeat this process until you are out of slack lanyard

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TIP: Keep the chain links small and tidy for the best results

Step 7 of 10

To secure the short tie, take hold of the last loop from the lanyard chain in one hand

Step 8 of 10

In your other hand, hold the spliced loop that attaches to the black shoulder strap

Step 9 of 10

Secure both loops into the metal clip at the end of the rescue tube

Step 10 of 10

To check if you have completed the short tie correctly, unclip both loops and toss the rescue tube while holding onto the black shoulder strap.
The daisy chain of lanyard should uncoil freely.