Equipment – Tow Ropes

The Question was raised in the use of elasticated tow ropes, the kind that can be purchased at Halford. Whereas the advantage of being elastic would keep it off the ground and clean, this is of less benefit in comparison to the impact should it snap or break free. If you are towing a vehicle down a main road, I guess the only damage would be to one of the vehicles. When we are operating in a grass field with people all around assisting in close proximity, I’d suggest this poses a risk to injury; a risk that the club can not take. The Committee have agreed to make it policy to not use these types of ropes and advise members to not assist where this kind of rope is being used. Any recovery equipment needs to be rated suitable for the task being used for within club activities – any doubt then seek confirmation that it can be used from any Committee member as they will either know themselves or be able to gain a qualified answer. Interestingly, using appropriate strap of the same length from Damar costs only a few pennies more. This it not to be confused with a kinetic recovery rope; which is a different discussion.