In many rescue situations, it may not be necessary to recover survivors directly using the rescue boat. Instead, the rescue boat may first be launched to pass recovery lines to persons in the water, allowing them to be safely pulled alongside the ship.

The most commonly used rescue lines include:

• Rocket Lines – Used to project a rescue line over long distances to persons in distress.
• Rescue Throw Lines – Specially designed floating lines that can be thrown accurately to survivors in the water.
• Heaving Lines – Lightweight lines used to establish an initial connection between the rescue team and survivors.

These rescue lines should always be maintained in good condition, stored correctly, and kept immediately available for use during emergencies. Regular inspections and practical drills ensure that crew members remain familiar with their operation and can deploy them quickly whenever rescue situations arise.