CANYONING

Reaching an exposed station

tepping on slippery rock can be a problem when approaching a vertical passage. This is the case when trying to reach a permanent station above a waterfall. Accessing the anchors can be delicate and more dangerous than the actual rappel. Trying to reach an exposed anchor without belay is not recommended. The leader can reach the station by self-lowering from the anchor above. Once attached to the station, the rope will act as a fixed line for the rest of the party.

Installing a self-lowering system

1. The rope attached to the harness passes through the anchors, then through the PIRANA. The free end of the rope is stored in a bag attached to the harness. The rope should glide without being damaged. If the anchor is too sharp, a quick link will be required.

For rappelling with the rope in a bag, a knot at the end of the rope is essential, as it is impossible to see ahead of time if the rope is long enough for the planned rappel.

Serge Caillault

Contents

34

Information is non-exhaustive. Refer to the other pages as well as to the user instructions and technical manuals. Technical training is essential.

Installing a fixed line

2. Belay by self-lowering 3. Tie into the station. Tie off the rope on the PIRANA if both hands are needed for tying into the anchors.

4. Attach the end of the rope that was on the harness to the station. Tighten the fixed line slightly, attach the second rope end with a figure eight knot. The end of the rope stays in the storage bag.

5. The second can reach the station by moving while connected to the fixed line. Once the entire party has passed, the rope can be pulled without leaving any equipment on the first anchors.

PIRANA
The PIRANA descender was designed specially for canyoning. It offers multiple braking options and can be installed on the rope without removing it from the harness. Used with an ATTACHE locking carabiner (comes separately), it makes a solid set-up that is practically impossible to lose once installed on the harness. Reduces the risk of leverage on the carabiner gate due to poor positioning. The PIRANA helps prevent the formation of a larks head hitch around the body and reduces rope twisting, without decreasing braking friction.

Contents

35

Information is non-exhaustive. Refer to the other pages as well as to the user instructions and technical manuals. Technical training is essential.