What is the function of a safety tether in swiftwater rescues?

In swiftwater rescues, the function of a safety tether is to provide an anchor point that minimizes the risk of the rescuer being swept away by strong currents. This tether helps ensure that rescuers remain connected to a secure location, which is crucial in dynamic and hazardous environments, such as moving water where the force can be unpredictable and powerful.

The tether is typically attached to a fixed point, such as a tree or an anchor system onshore, which enables rescuers to move into the water safely while maintaining a connection that prevents them from being driven downstream. This safety measure is essential for maintaining stability and control during a rescue operation, allowing the rescuer to focus on assisting the victim without compromising their own safety.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects that do not directly address the primary function of the safety tether. For instance, working independently could compromise the rescuer's safety, assisting in carrying victims is a separate task that may not require a tether, and tying equipment securely, while important, does not encapsulate the primary safety focus of preventing the rescuer from being washed away.