Florida Fire State Practice Exam

What type of knot can be used to secure a victim's hands or feet to facilitate dragging?

1. Bowline

2. Clove Hitch

3. Handcuff Knot

4. Figure Eight Knot

The correct answer is: Handcuff Knot

The handcuff knot is specifically designed for securely binding an individual's hands or feet to prevent movement, which is crucial in emergency situations where a victim needs to be dragged to safety. This knot creates a secure loop that holds the limbs tightly together, yet it can be released quickly when necessary. In scenarios like rescues, maintaining control over the victim is essential, and the handcuff knot provides that security without risking injury to the person. Its design allows for a snug fit, minimizing the chance of slippage while ensuring that the victim can be transported effectively and safely. The other knots, while useful for various applications, do not offer the same level of security for binding limbs as the handcuff knot does. The bowline creates a fixed loop but is not suitable for immobilizing a person. The clove hitch is typically used to secure items to a fixed object and does not provide a secure binding for body parts. The figure eight knot is primarily used for climbing and securing rope but lacks the specific binding capability required for dragging a person. Thus, the handcuff knot is the most appropriate choice for this purpose.