When someone goes for a swim in a strong current, the safest way to get them out is with a throw rope. Throw ropes are either used from the shore or from a stable rescue boat. A rescuer can pull a swimmer towards shore by tossing the bag to them and then allowing the current's push to pendulum the swimmer towards a safe bank.
Throw ropes are intended for whitewater rescue situations and are slightly different from the tow rope variation that sea kayakers use. Throw ropes have longer lines for reaching far away swimmers and are designed so each piece of the system is visible and buoyant.
Tow ropes are designed to assist with a swamped boat or to help pull a swimmer from unsafe conditions. They have a detachable side for the rescuer and a carabiner to connect to the swimmer's boat.
Many people use their throw and tow ropes interchangeably, but these design differences should be considered if you are frequently partaking in these activities.
