Save Yourself through Mountaineering Self-Arrest
Nothing sucks like falling off a mountain, especially when it could have been prevented. If the sport we choose holds a realistic possibility of plummeting to a certain and messy death, then we best not overlook the safety techniques involves. Self-arrest is one of those supremely important skills in which the proper application of our gear and the familiarity with the technique could save lives. There are many different positions in which your body could fall down a slope. With this post, we’ll address the self-arrest technique for two basic falling positions: on your front with your head uphill, as well as on your back, also with your head uphill.
Preventative Measures
Obviously, the ideal would be not to fall in the first place. Don’t overlook the importance of developing solid ice axe and crampon skills as well as good footwork.
Position of the Ice Axe
Make sure you are holding your ice axe with your uphill hand with its point facing the rear. If you do slip, bring the shaft of the ice axes across your body diagonally. Your lower hand should be holding down near the spike, and the pick of the ice axe needs to be pointing away from you. At risk of stating the obvious, you don’t want to stabilize your fall only to then stab yourself in the heart. The end result will still be a spattering of blood and a hefty dose of pain. Now that that’s said, you also want to make sure to tuck your elbows in and maintain a firm grip.
Body Position When Sliding On Your Front
When you hit the ground, your head should be over the top of the ice axe so that your weight rests above it, and turn your face away to protect it from snow and the ice axe. Unless you want to cartwheel down the mountain like a rag doll, keep your feet in the air. This will prevent your crampons from catching and sending you head over heels and barreling towards The End. Keep your knees spread out for stability. Arch your back to lift your stomach above the snow; this makes it so your weight is distributed between the ice axe and your knees and the result will be a gradual stop.
When Sliding On Your Back
You’ll want to roll over to your front as soon as possible. Roll in the direction of the hand that is holding the head of the ice axe. Don’t let your feet dig into the snow as you roll, instead lift them up to avoid having them catch. Once you are on your front, go into the position previously described to keep from sliding further.
Learning how to self-arrest is something that should be practiced over and over before tackling any mountain. It’s like wearing a condom, there’s no guarantee of safety, but it sure increases the odds.
