Setting an anchor point from the ground using a throwline . |
Allows climber to install line directly to high anchor point .
May allow climber to begin rescue operation lower in the tree without ascending to the top of the tree to establish anchor point .
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Can require a lot of practice to install lines efficiently , particularly in tall or dense trees or where there is dense undergrowth .
Final anchor point will be installed without climbing up the trunk - less likely to see structural defects before attaching above them .
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72 |
Climber can avoid dense growth on trunks by ascending through empty space . |
Harder to inspect anchor point from a distance , particularly in tall or dense trees . |
Energy-efficient and familiar ascent methods can be used . |
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Advancing an anchor . |
Allows climber to carefully inspect trunk and unions during ascent . |
Multiple short ascents make it harder to use energy-efficient ascent systems and increases climber fatigue . |
91 |
Simple technique - does not require much equipment . |
Can be difficult to install new climbing system in big trees with widely separated branches . |
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Useful in trees with dense crowns .
Climber can easily descend at any point if attached with climbing rope .
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Requires multiple changeovers : each changeover increases risk . |
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First anchor point may be close to the ground . |
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Spur climbing . |
Simple and reliable technique that will work in almost any situation or tree . |
Can be slow and arduous , particularly on trees with dense branches that have not been ‘ stripped ’ by the climber or if the technique has not been practiced . |
96 |
No time spent trying to install anchor points remotely . |
Must ascend to the top of the tree to install a top anchor , even if the casualty is on a lower branch . |
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Allows for a thorough tree inspection during ascent . |
May require multiple changeovers , depending on branch frequency . |
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Potential for long slips on smooth bark trees or palms if climbing spurs slip or the climber ‘ gaffs out ’. |