What is an important quality of a good knot?

A good knot is characterized by its stability once tied correctly. Stability ensures that the knot will not slip or come undone under the forces and loads it may encounter during use. In rescue situations, where safety is paramount, a stable knot can significantly impact the reliability of the entire system. It provides confidence to rescuers, ensuring that the equipment will perform as needed during critical operations.

A knot that is complicated to tie can lead to mistakes or delays, especially in high-stress situations. Requiring multiple tools to tie a knot is impractical, especially in emergency scenarios where quick actions are necessary. Similarly, a knot designed solely for temporary purposes lacks the reliability and strength needed for rescue applications, where permanence and security are essential. Thus, the stability of a knot, when tied correctly, is what primarily supports its effectiveness in safety-critical situations like rope rescue.