if you were teaching a beginer to climb at mount morialta, what list of safety procedures would you detail before begining?

Question
Sorry, put question in subject: If you were teaching a beginer to climb at mount Morialta what type of procedures list would you make before they would begin their climb? 2)what is the difference between ropes and what is required to keep them in excellent condition, must include the care of and storage of.

Answer
Dear Bonnie----here is a quick 2-part answer:

AS TO BEGINNERS I WOULD SAY:

1. Because of the potential for falls, climbing is inherently dangerous.
2. Climbers manage the danger by using a complex safety system.
3. The safety system must be religiously checked.
4. You must have a basic ability to check your harness and knot to assure yourself that you are within the climbing system.
5. Climbing relies on anchors. You may testa top-rope anchor by taking a short fall near the ground.
6. Complementing the safety systems are gymnastic moves that allow you to advance up the rock.
7. Don't go near edges or rappel unless you are on a separate belay.
8. Wear a helmit--even short falls on top rope can cause serious head injuries.

For more, see a basic book on rock climbing, like the one John Long wrote.




AS TO ROPES:

1. The thicker the rope, the less likely it is to be cut.
2. Ropes come as 11 mm, 10.5 mm, 10 mm, 9.8 mm, and for double ropes (using two at the same time) double 9 mmm and double 8 mm.
3. Generally, lighter ropes, like 10 mm, are favored in sport climbing, and thicker ropes and double ropes are used for trad climbing and mountaineering.
4. No rope should be exposed to acids, as in battery, or other chemicals.
5. You should reduce sun exposure too.
6. Ropes are stored in cool-dry places.
7. You may go to rope manufacturer websites, or see the instructions attached to your new ropes for guidance and care directions.
8. Manufacturers include Black Diamond, Mammot, and Sterling.
9. Length is another consideration. Most people favor 60 m ropes, but 50 m and 70m ropes also come into play.



For more on climbing safety and rope selection, please see, my book, "Ultrasafe, A Guide to Safer Rock Climbing," available at Amazon.com.

Good Luck

George Allen