Improvised Rescue Snowdonia
Description:
Improvised Rescue Strategies for Rock Climbing Emergencies
Rock climbing can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but it’s important to always be prepared for any emergency situation. Improvised rescue techniques can keep you safe in situations where traditional rescue methods aren’t available. Learn what improvised rescue options are available, and how to use them in a variety of different scenarios.
On your course we will cover
- How to avoid simple problems!
- Dealing with a stuck climber
- Second climbing past a runner
- Assisted and unassisted hoists
- Prussiking
- Escaping the system
- If time allows we may cover more complex scenarios. Traverse rescues. Multi pitch rescues.
The following topics will be considered on the course
Preparing For Emergencies With Gear Checklists.
You’ll want to prepare for the worst before heading out. Compile a checklist of rescue gear that includes a helmet, first-aid kit, headlamp, gloves, prussik loops and any other items essential for safety. Try to plan out your route beforehand so that you have an idea of what kind of terrain you’ll be dealing with in case of an emergency.
Perform Self-Rescue When Possible
Self-rescue is the safest technique for dealing with climbing emergencies as it limits potential injury and exposure to you and your part. A few ways to perform self-rescue include constructing hauling systems, creating improvised abseils or anchors from equipment in your harness, or by using counterweight abseil techniques. However, these techniques should only be attempted after extensive practice and familiarity with proper safety procedures.
Learn the Basics of Mechanical Advantage systems for Effective Rescue Solutions
In a rescue situation, properly setting up mechanical advantage systems is essential. It's important to know how to set up these systems correctly for maximum effectiveness and efficiency as well as minimal stress on anchors and rope. Be sure to familiarize yourself with various types of mechanical advantage configurations and protocols in order to safely perform rock climbing rescues.
Secure Yourself and Other Climbers with Prusik Loops
Prusik loops or Prussic knots are a great emergency tool for rock climbing as they can be used to secure and safeguard climbers when suspending from the rope. Knots in the rope such as a prusik loop will allow you to control your descent and provide additional safety while lowering injured climbers. Additionally, they also double as backup systems if abseil anchors are not secure - the added friction provides extra security in the event of equipment failure.
Choose an Appropriate Descend Method
When an emergency situation arises, it is important to choose the most appropriate descend method. Lowering can be the best solution when both climbers are injured and cannot rappel themselves or when the terrain does not allow for efficient abseiling. Be sure to tie knots in the rope for security during lowering, assess abseil anchors for safety, secure your belayer before abseiling, and also remember to use a prussik loop or backup system when suspending from the rope.
How will the day be organized?
We usually meet in a local café to discuss the theory behind the days practical rescues. We then head to a local crag or outcrop to practice techniques at ground level. Once mastered we increase the height and try to do the rescue in a realistic situation. We always use back up ropes just incase!
Location:
Snowdonia, North Wales.
Duration:
1 or 2 days.
£60 per person for 1 day.
Experience Required:
Competent leading difficult grade climbs or be able to safely rig single pitch climbs (for single pitch rescue scenarios).
18+
We will provide all specialist equipment
Booking Form (size: 186 kB)
Medical Form (size: 103 kB)
Gallery