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How To Belay Rappel

By: CHARNEDRA MCCOOK

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Learning how to belay rappel is not just a technique, but it is a method of safety. If you are into any climbing activities, eventually you would need to learn how to belay rappel. Here are a few steps to help you belay rappel safely and effectively.

Things you will need:

  • Rope
  • Harness
  • Secure surface to tie knot
  1. Tie a knot on harness. The harness has a foundation that makes it easy for the rope to cling to it during belay rappelling. You would need to tie the knot as tight as possible. If the know is not secure, then the belaying process would not be successful. It could result in other dangerous problems. Loop the knot around the harness as if you are tieing a shoe over and over again until the knot is secure. Tug hard on it to make sure.
  2. Find a surface to attach the rope to. Once the rope is attached to the harness, then find a surface that would secure you. Start by looking for an attachment that is steady and could support your body weight. Once you get a spot, then attach the other end of your rope to it. Tie the other end of the rope securely.
  3. Do a rappelling test. You would need to do a belay rappelling test. You could either walk a distance until the rope comes into a straight line. Walk as far as you could with force. If there is no looseness and the rope supports you, then you have belay rappelled successfully. This step may take a little time, but it is worth it for safety. You could also use a friend to help you fall a distance to make sure the belay rappelling was done correctly.
Posted on: Jul. 05, 2010