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Rescue Throwing Devices

A throwing device lets a bystander offer help from the bank instead of entering the water. Having one in the right place, and knowing how it is meant to be used, is part of a sensible pond safety plan.

What is a rescue throwing device?

A rescue throwing device is a piece of equipment designed to be tossed or reached toward a person in the water so that they can hold on while help arrives. Common examples include throw bags, ring buoys and reaching poles. They keep the helper on the shore, which is the safest place to be.

This article does not explain rescue techniques. Courses from recognized providers teach how to use these tools safely and when not to try. Treat any device as one part of a plan that begins with calling 911.

Why are they better than jumping in?

People in trouble in the water can panic and grab at whatever is near, including a would-be rescuer. Entering the water exposes the helper to the same hazards, such as cold, current, hidden obstacles and exhaustion. A throwing or reaching aid offers a way to help without sharing the danger.

Even so, equipment is not a guarantee. Conditions, distance and the condition of the person all matter, and a bystander should stay within the limits of their training and call for professional help immediately.

Where should they be placed?

Put devices where a person would be needed: at the pond, near docks and boat ramps, by irrigation canals and at any water that people regularly use or pass. Mount them where they can be seen and reached from the approach path and mark the spot with a sign.

A device stored in the shop does nothing for someone at the far side of the pond. Walk the shoreline and think about how long it would take to reach each stretch of the bank.

• Near docks, boat launches and swimming areas.
• Visible from the path people use.
• Marked with a sign.
• Protected from sun, weather and theft as far as practical.

How do you choose one?

Different devices suit different sites. Look for equipment from reputable manufacturers, read the instructions that come with each product and ask a water safety instructor or your local fire department for advice before you buy. Do not rely on a home-made substitute for a purchased, tested device.

Match the device to the site and the people who will use it. A device that is too heavy, too complicated or too unfamiliar will not be used in an emergency. Ask the manufacturer about the intended use, any weight or distance guidance and how often to replace it.

How do you inspect and maintain them?

Check each device at the start of every season and after storms or heavy use. Look for fraying, cuts, sun damage, tangled lines, mildew, cracked housings and missing attachments. Replace damaged parts or the whole unit according to the manufacturer instructions.

Keep a simple log with the date, the person who checked and what was done. A log makes it clear when the next inspection is due and helps you notice patterns, such as theft or weather damage at a particular site.

How do you make sure people know about them?

Show every family member and worker where devices are kept and explain what they are for. Children can learn that these tools exist and that an adult must be told at once, without being asked to attempt a rescue. Older teens and adults should be encouraged to take a training course.

Include the devices in your emergency plan. The first steps are to shout for help, call 911, give the exact location and keep eyes on the person. Training from the Red Cross or your local fire department is the right way to learn further.

What can a family practice together?

Hold a short family meeting each spring and walk to the water together. Point out where devices are kept, who would call 911 and what address and directions to give. Keep the tone calm and matter of fact so children learn that safety is a normal part of farm life.

Practice the call, not the rescue. Let older children rehearse giving the address and describing the location. Make sure everyone knows that the first action is to shout for an adult and call for help, and the second is to keep watching without entering the water.

Repeat the review each year and after any change to the pond, dock or water use. Equipment, people and conditions change, and the plan should change with them.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.