Why Cavers Don't Belay

In an attempt to get a cool video of Dave ascending a 36 foot pit, I placed myself directly below him: Stupid me!

Category:

Education

Tags:

• caves
• caving
• cavers

[WaldoTreehorn]

Like any great cinematographer I willingly placed myself at risk for the sake of my art. And - by God - I got the shot. So sit back in your rocking chairs and criticize me all you want. I knew the risks, I put myself out there, and I came away with the prize.

Actually, I was very well protected and just played up the "almost hit" part for the camera. Waldo

[WaldoTreehorn]

No. Explain it to me - in detail.

[driggswv]

There are many caves or situations where a belay is acceptable. There is NEVER a situation where the belayer should be in a compromised position. The point of a belay is to *prevent* an accident, not cause one!

Just because you found out "the hard way" why it's an incredibly stupid move to stand directly in the rockfall zone, it doesn't invalidate the legitimate uses for a belay (eg. a beginner on rappel). Gee, maybe the belayer should stand out of the fall zone next time!

[planetman07]

This could be a great video to show to those cavers who argue that a belay is neccessary! There idiots you guys tested it and now you learned your lesson! That's exactly why I don't use one! Thanks for the vid by the way what cave is this?

[CAVERWOOD]

ouch! hahahaha...

[Eyewash03]

haha, good thing you have a helmet. where is that cave at?

[motorkitty13]

oh yeah....."ROCK!!"

[b1llybong]

does fall zone mean anything to you guys....