Bank Safety
When scouting a bank for river features Scouts must carry 2 pieces of important equipment.
These are your paddle and your throw rope.

Paddles:-
Reasons for having your paddle are that it provides support when walking around slippery riverbanks. It also provides an instant means of rescue if someone falls into a river as it can be used as something for the swimmer to hold onto so he or she can be pulled to safety. Paddles can also be used in the case of someone breaking a leg were 2 paddles can be lashed together to provide a make-shift means of transport for the injured person in the form of a stretcher. Also handy for hitting stone throwers, or vicious animals that attack you on the bank.

Ropes:-
Reasons for having your throw rope are its obvious use to rescue those in the water. It can also be used a handhold to aid entry to inaccessible rescue or inspection areas or for abseiling to a rescue area.
[Doing this is done so at your own peril!]
Throwropes are not for absailing into an area on and would only be done when all other options are screwed!
Remember always wear your helmet when walking around a riverbank no matter what the conditions are!