Friday, July 8, 2011

Whoo-hoo!  This afternoon I completed my Rock Climbing Certification course!

You need to know that climbing is amazing and a ton of fun, but it can also be dangerous.

The instructor really wanted us to understand and practice safe climbing techniques, no matter where we are climbing.  After all, who wants to get injured, or worse, risk paralysis, or death!  So what was ingrained was that you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of your climbing partners.

Here are some safety tips:

• Know your climbing partners and their habits
• Check your belay
• Check your knots and harness buckles
• Inspect your gear and replace when needed
• Always double check your rappel system (this is a climber's most dangerous mistake)

OUTDOORS:

• Keep an eye on the weather
• Rock breaks - check your holds (loose holds are marked with a white X)

Here’s a CRIMP - it’s a hand technique. 

It's the most natural way to grip.

Because of a family funeral, we left for Montreal on Friday, July 8, 2011 shortly after my Rock Climbing Certification course.