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Climb OnSafely

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Climbing / Rappelling

Great challenge — great accomplishment

Climbing merit badge

Unit rappelling is more dangerous

Unit leaders reinforce following directions

Climbing instructors give technical direction

Good climbers may not be good instructors

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Resources

Instructors — NOLS, WEA, AMGA, REI, EMS, Mountaineers, universities, Project Adventure

Topping Out: A BSA Climbing/Rappelling Manual (#3207)

Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills

Passport to High Adventure (#4310)

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Recommendations

Special training for:

Lead climbing

Snow and ice climbing

Top-rope all council / district activities

Cub / Webelos Scouts are encouraged

Normally climbing gym

Age-appropriate instruction

Size-appropriate equipment

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Overview

Qualified supervisionQualified instructorsPhysical fitnessSafe area or courseEquipment PlanningEnvironmental conditionsDiscipline

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1. Qualified Supervision

Mature and conscientious adult, 21 or overAccepts responsibility for safety of youthCommitted to Climb On Safely procedureTwo adults (one 21+), plus 1 adult / additional 10 youthOne person ARC Standard First Aid / CPR

“Help is Delayed” module desiredEMT, LPN, RN, etc. OK

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2. Qualified Instructors

Over 21Completed 10 hours instructor training

BSA climbing instructorNationally / regionally recognized organizationClimbing schoolCollege-level climbing / rappelling course

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3. Physical Fitness

Class 1 medical record (#34414) minimum

Adapt supervision, discipline and precautions to individual health conditions

Require a physical if problems are identified

Inform the climbing instructor of medical conditions

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4. Safe Area

Established / developed site or facility

Qualified instructor survey in advance

Determine suitability for age, maturity, skill

Safely accommodate the number of participants

Identify emergency evacuation route in advance

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5. Equipment

Proper equipment for size and abilityHelmets, rope and hardware approved by UIAA, CEN, or ASTMEquipment new or instructor providedKeep records on each equipment item

Discard after three hard fallsDiscard after four years

Wear a helmet when more than six feet above ground

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6. PlanningWritten parental consent for climbing/rappellingInform parents / committee of

Climbing / rappelling planSevere weather alternate planOther alternative plans

Secure permits for public and private landUse a qualified climbing instructorInstructor has topo map and weather briefingCell phone or radio is suggested

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7. Environmental Conditions

Instructor responsible for monitoringLoose rockPoisonous plantsWildlifeWeather

Buddy system monitor DehydrationHypothermiaUnusual fear / apprehension

Supervisor — Leave No Trace

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8. Discipline

Participants — know, understand, respect rules and procedures

Teach before the outingReview immediately prior to the activityTeach the reason why

Follow instructor’s directionsBe strict and fair

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Summary

Qualified supervisionQualified instructorsPhysical fitnessSafe area or courseEquipment PlanningEnvironmental conditionsDiscipline

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Questions?