What should everyone carry in their pocket when working with ropes?

Carrying trauma shears or a knife when working with ropes is important for a few reasons. In situations involving ropes, especially during rescue operations or climbing, having a sharp cutting tool readily available can be essential for safety. If an individual gets entangled in a rope or if there's a need to quickly detach someone from a harness or a rope system, having immediate access to a cutting tool allows for a rapid response to prevent injury or to facilitate a safe escape.

Moreover, trauma shears are designed to cut through a variety of materials, making them versatile for first aid situations as well. They can help in cutting away clothing to access injuries, cut bandages, or manage gear that may be hindering rescue efforts. By having trauma shears or a knife in their pocket, individuals enhance their preparedness for emergencies, ensuring they can act quickly and effectively when situations demand it.

In contrast, while items like a first aid kit, safety whistle, and emergency rope are also useful in various scenarios, they do not provide the immediate cutting capability that a knife or trauma shears offers in rope-related emergencies.