What is the purpose of an overhand safety knot?

The purpose of an overhand safety knot is to provide added safety with any knot. This knot is typically used as a backup to ensure that the primary knot maintains its integrity and does not come undone under stress. It creates a compact knot that can easily be tied quickly and is highly effective in preventing the main knot from slipping or slipping apart. Additionally, the overhand safety knot can be used in various applications, such as securing lines in rescue operations or during rappelling, where safety is paramount.

The other options, while related to rope use, do not accurately describe the specific function of an overhand safety knot. For instance, creating a fixed loop is more characteristic of knots like the bowline or figure-eight loop. Attaching two ropes securely is better served by knots like the double fisherman's knot. Adjusting the length of a rope typically involves techniques like looping or bights rather than using an overhand safety knot.