The Alpine Tower I and The Alpine Tower II Universal Challenge Course Instructor s Manual

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3 The Alpine Tower I and The Alpine Tower II Universal Challenge Course Instructor s Manual A Supplement to The Challenge Course Instructor s Manual for Alpine Towers International Fourth Edition 2004

4 First Edition, 1989 Second Edition, 1993 Third Edition, 1997 Fourth Edition, 2004 Alpine Towers International, Inc. P.O Box 69 (6995 Skyland Road) Jonas Ridge, NC (phone) (fax)

5 Contents Contributors... iii List of Illustrations... iv The Alpine Tower Introduction to the Alpine Tower...AT1-1 Policy Summary Specific to the Alpine Tower...AT2-1 Swing by Choice, Supplemental and Universal Activities...AT2-2 Alpine Tower Daily Inspection...AT3-1 Access Prevention...AT4-1 Group Initiatives...AT5-1 Spiders Alive...AT5-1 The Steps...AT5-1 The Perimeter Traverse...AT5-1 The O Brother Shuffle...AT5-2 The Tai Chi Traverse...AT5-2 Penny in the Haystack...AT5-2 Trust Falls...AT5-3 The Titanic...AT5-3 Raising the Sphinx...AT5-4 The Amazon...AT5-4 The Traffic Jam...AT5-5 Line-Up Games...AT5-5 Swing by Choice...AT6-1 Supplemental Activities for the Alpine Tower I and II...AT7-1 The Egg Drop...AT7-1 Accessible Spider Web...AT7-1 Partner Events on the Tower...AT7-2 The Sloth Beam Regain...AT7-3 Dating Sloths...AT7-3 Slack Wire Walking...AT7-3 Night Climbs...AT7-4 Group Bivouac...AT7-4 Rappelling...AT7-5 The Tower Pull...AT7-6 Single Rope Technique (SRT)...AT7-6 Mountain Rescue Techniques...AT7-6 Participants Teaching Participants...AT7-6 Family Days or Public Demonstrations...AT7-6 Register...AT7-6 Universal Challenge Activities...AT8-1 Alpine Tower Curriculum Models...AT9-1 Rescue Procedures Alpine Tower...AT10-1 Vector Pull Procedure...AT10-1 Fixed Vector Pull Procedure...AT10-1 Pick-Off Procedure...AT10-2 Unsafe Pendulum Procedure...AT10-2 Glossary Index ii

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7 Contributors The Alpine Tower Instructor s Manual, First Edition, written by Mike Fischesser, 1989 Illustrations in this edition by Zachary Lesch Huie Aram Attarian John Berkley Lisa Carter Jerry Clawges Mike Fischesser Janice Gravely Jim Gravely Joe Lackey Matt McCoy Frank McNutt Bill Murray Robbie Oates Chuck Pagano Annie Pathik Dev Pathik Shannon Parker Jamie Phillips Cyndi Rapenske Don Rogers Skip Sickler Stephen Streufert Dee Thomas Tom Zartman We used information and ideas from the following resources: Adventure by Choice Training Manual by Chuck Pagano, West Chester University Graphics & Printing, Ashley Book of Knots by Clifford W. Ashley, Doubleday & Company, Inc., The Complete Ropes Course Manual, Third Edition by Karl Rohnke, Jim B. Wall, Catherine M. Tait, and Don Rogers. Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company, Handbook of Knots by Des Pawson, DK Publishing, Project Adventure, Hamilton, Massachusetts iii

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9 List of Illustrations The Alpine Tower Section Illustration 10, Swing by Choice Setup...AT6 Illustration 11, Universal Swing Setup...AT6 Illustration 12, Swing by Choice Halyard Snap Release, Figure 1...AT6 Illustration 13, Swing by Choice Halyard Snap Release, Figure 2...AT6 Illustration 14, Swing by Choice Rescue Procedure...AT6 Illustration 15, Rappel Lowering System...AT7 Illustration 16, Team Hoist...AT8 Illustration 17, Counterbalance Hoist...AT8 Illustration 18, 4:1 Haul Safe System...AT8 Illustration 19, ATI Vector Pull Rescue Procedure...AT10 Illustration 20, Alpine Tower Rescue Lowering Procedure...AT10 iv

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11 Introduction to the Alpine Tower The Alpine Tower I and the Alpine Tower II Universal Challenge Courses represent some of the more unique structures in the adventure education industry. A versatile tool, the Tower is currently being used to provide exceptional programming experiences for a wide variety of participants. Currently, Towers around the country are providing programs for: Youth prisons as an anchor point for programs focusing on the transition from prison back to society. Jewish culture camps providing experiential lessons in Judaism. Kids-with-cancer camp providing recreational opportunities and personal confidence experiences. U.S. Air Force Academy as part of the Center for Character Development for officer training. Psychiatric hospitals as part of ongoing patient treatment. Colleges and universities as part of their freshman orientation program. High schools in dropout prevention programs. YMCA summer camps and retreat centers. College prep schools, curriculum and leadership. The ability for the Alpine Tower to be used effectively by a wide variety of groups for a wide variety of programmatic outcomes is well recorded and a testament to the inherent design of the structure. Therefore, the Alpine Tower is a tool that can be used for a variety of programs and outcomes. The design of the program, then, is incumbent on the facilitator s design rather than rigidly defined by the course itself. Facilitation skills and program planning are complex endeavors, yet clearly important to the overall success of the Alpine Tower experience. Regardless of the composition of the group and the objectives, the policies remain the same. As a reminder: ATI challenge courses have a set of common polices that are in place regardless of the event, challenge course, outcomes, or population. Policies should be reviewed as a part of each program day. (See Section 3, General ATI Policies.) In addition, the Alpine Tower I and Alpine Tower II Universal Challenge Courses have a set of unique policies. (See Section AT2, Policy Summary Specific to the Alpine Tower.) The Alpine Tower I and Alpine Tower II Universal Challenge Course Instructor s Manual contains the following information: Policy Summary Specific to the Alpine Tower, Swing by Choice, and Supplemental and Universal Activities Alpine Tower Daily Inspection Access Prevention Group Initiatives Swing by Choice Supplemental Activities for the Alpine Tower I and II Universal Challenge Activities Alpine Tower Curriculum Models Rescue Procedures for the Alpine Tower AT1-1

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13 Policy Summary Specific to the Alpine Tower In addition to the General ATI Policies, the following is a summary of additional policies specific to the Alpine Tower. 1. An extra rope for rescues will be set while participants are climbing on the Tower. 2. Belay ropes will be positioned over the top of the belay rail. 3. Do not allow participants to get in a pendulum situation. 4. Do not allow participants to grab copper lightning cable, place fingers inside holes of the eyebolts, in pole junctures, or in any other place where their fingers would be injured if they were to take a fall. 5. Do not allow partners to hold one another as they dismount from the deck. (Their combined body weight above their harnesses may cause them to invert.) 6. Do not use the Tower in periods of high winds (>30mph) as these winds can cause several events (e.g. Missing Link, Corporate Ladder) to swing wildly and potentially hit a climber. 7. Staff to participant ratio on the Alpine Tower will be 1:6. AT2-1

14 Policy Summary Swing by Choice, Universal and Supplemental Activities Swing by Choice 1. Participants will complete a Health Disclosure Form. 2. Always pre-test swing system before using. Have two people briefly hang on the swing cable. 3. The maximum participant weight for swinging is 300 pounds. 4. Participant will wear a harness, helmet, and safety glasses on the swing. 5. Participant will clip to the swing with one carabiner, and to the Omni-Sling with a second carabiner. 6. Participant will position pull rope tail on outside of the leg, not between the legs. 7. Do not pull the participant higher than 30 feet. 8. Never use the swing haul rope as a belay rope. Accessible Spider Web 1. Do not allow dynamic movements, such as diving or high jumping. Partner Events on the Tower 1. Each climber has a separate belay. 2. Do not allow partners to hold one another as they dismount from the deck. 3. Use a tether and carabiners, rather than knots, to attach the two climbers, ensuring that they can unclip their tether if they get tangled. Night Climbs 1. All elements of the climbing belay systems are the same. Group Bivouac 1. All climbing belay systems are the same. 2. No more than six participants on upper deck of the Tower, including staff, at any one time. 3. A staff member will ascend the Tower and set up the necessary anchors and lowering systems for emergencies. Staff will have two separate lowering systems set up and ready to go in the case of lightning or other emergencies. 4. As participants reach the top deck, they will connect to the new anchors with a tether first, and then untie and lower the belay rope to the next climber. 5. Participants will be appropriately tied into the belay rails, belay rope, or to the swing cables when on the upper deck. 6. Participants will stay in their harness and tethers until they are back on the ground. This will require some creative thinking on how best to position the tether while in the sleeping bag. Rappelling 1. No more than six participants on upper deck of Tower, including staff, at any one time. 2. Make sure all clothing, hair, helmet straps, etc. are secured in a way that keeps them from getting caught in the rappel device. 3. All staff and participant rappels will be belayed with a separate belay rope. 4. Participants will be appropriately tied into the belay rails, belay rope, or to the swing cables when on the upper deck. 5. Use double rappel ropes for the load lines. AT2-2

15 6. Staff will be trained in rappel rescue techniques prior to setting up the rappel. 7. A rappel lowering system is pre-rigged and in place at the top of the Tower with staff trained to use it for rescue/emergency purposes. Team Beam Deck 1. Participants and staff will be on belay while on the Team Beam Deck. Team Hoist 1. Staff will be thoroughly familiar with the set-up before attempting with participants. 2. A separate belay will always be used. 3. Never allow staff to experiment with mechanical advantage haul systems on a participant. 4. No more than 7 people will be used to pull the participant up unless more are required due to the group s strength limitations and/or size. Counterbalance Hoist 1. A separate belay will always be used. 2. Staff will be familiar with the set-up before performing with participants. 4:1 Haul Safe System 1. Staff will be thoroughly familiar with the set-up before attempting with participants. 2. A separate belay will always be used. 3. Never allow staff to experiment with mechanical advantage haul systems on a participant. AT2-3

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17 Alpine Tower Daily Inspection Prior to each day of programming, staff will conduct a cursory inspection of the Alpine Tower and all associated equipment. Staff must be knowledgeable in some basic criteria for inspecting the Tower and equipment and be able to notice any possible discrepancies. Note, too, that daily inspections are part of a large inspection scheme that includes monthly and annual inspections. A staff member with long-term continuity in the program will conduct monthly inspections, which involves a much more detailed inspection of the Tower and equipment. A member of the ATI Inspection Team will visit each facility annually for a Structural Inspection or Program Review. At a minimum, the following equipment and structural inspections will take place each day prior to using the Alpine Tower. Inspecting Equipment Ropes While uncoiling and stacking, and prior to pulling the rope onto the Tower for use, run each rope through the hands while visually inspecting. Both feel and look for breaks in inner core, glazing, worn or torn sheath, excessive dirt, damage due to chemicals, and exposure to ultraviolet light, heat, or rodents. Helmets Inspect for cracks, cleanliness, and to make sure the head and chin straps are intact and in good condition. Harnesses Inspect each for any damage to buckles, torn material, or stitching. Hardware Inspect each (including pulleys, carabiners, and belay devices) for cracks or excessive wear. Further details on equipment can be found in Section 7, ATI Challenge Course Equipment. Inspecting the Tower (and Swing by Choice) Consider the inspection sequence of Out, In, Up as a method to provide a routine to daily inspections. Out While approaching the Tower from a distance, look at the Tower, Swing, and general site. Generally, make sure nothing has been affected by weather (high winds, lightning, floods, etc.), vandals, animals, or unexpected circumstances. Look for deadfalls, lightning damage, insect or rodent damage, and sufficient ground cover with no holes. Pay particular attention to: Guy cables Do a hands-on check, pushing on guy cable at face level (5 6 ). A total of 6 18 play in the guy cable is normal. A very tight (no play) or loose (24 or more play) guy may need adjusting. (See information below on rear guy cables.) Ground screw anchors Visually inspect. Is it stationary in the ground? Pull the mulch away if it is covering the eye. Make sure it has not been hit or cut by mowers or other vehicles. Strandvises - Do a visual and hands-on check. Is the cable securely locked in the vise? Look for cracks in the bail where it is loaded. Check to see if the bail is displaced (deformed). Is there approximately 6 of cable tail exiting through the Strandvise? Rear guy cables These control the height of the Swing and are life support cables. Because of this, they have a longer cable tail through the Strandvise that is secured back to the main cable with two cable clamps. This is a back-up system in case the Strandvise were to fail. Do a hands-on inspection to make sure cable clamp nuts are tight. Belay benches Are they stationary? Are the eyebolts secure? AT3-1

18 Go all the way around the Tower and Swing to each guy cable and belay bench to inspect. If using only the Swing, inspect each Swing guy cable and rear guy cable of the Tower. In (specific to the Tower) Move into the base of the Tower to the lower tripod legs. Decks and base rails Secure and in good shape? Up (specific to the Tower) Visually follow each lower tripod leg up into the Tower. Look for any discrepancies in pole connections, pole structure, and copper cable. Look for signs of insects, rodents, and bird nests. Access Prevention Devices (APDs) Any sign of vandals, unauthorized access? Events (Team Beam, Seesaw, Karma Platform, Beanstalk and platform, nets and hangdown ropes, Floating Poles, Missing Link, Corporate Ladder) Hanging properly and intact? Lashings Intact and tied snugly? Handholds Missing? Broken? Interior guys Attached to eyebolts at each end? Are cables/turnbuckles and eyebolts fairly snug between poles? Parachute cords Hanging freely from Tower belay rails? Untangled and uncut? Belay and upper rails Intact? Lightning rods Secured at corners to upper tripod poles? Specific to the Alpine Tower II with Swing by Choice In (specific to Swing) Swing poles Is dirt compact around pole? Up (specific to Swing) Swing pole: Is pole(s) intact, copper cable secure, handholds (if applicable) secure? Do horizontal cable connections at top of pole look secure? Lightning rod vertical? Look across span of horizontal cables to Tower connection: Are horizontal cables hanging evenly? Are vertical cables connected to horizontal cables? Is hangdown cable approximately 9 feet off the ground? Are cables connected to the Tower? AT3-2

19 Access Prevention Ensure that all efforts to thwart unwanted access to the Alpine Tower are undertaken after each day of programming. Take the following steps: 1. Access Prevention Devices (APDs): APDs should be well greased and locked. 2. No Trespassing Signs: No Trespassing signs should be clearly visible on the course. 3. Removable Handholds: All Removable Handholds should be removed and stored with Tower climbing equipment. 4. Knotted rope and cargo nets should be stored and secured on top of the Team Beam Platform. 5. Haul lines should be secured underneath the APDs. Ensure that when replacing haul lines, the new one is no larger than 1/8 diameter. AT4-1

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21 Group Initiatives Many of these group initiatives take place within the base of the Tower. They are all low-to-theground problems, occasionally requiring spotting and a few props. Spiders Alive Materials: up to 5 rubber spiders This is a fun "get-to-know-your-group" type of icebreaker and an excellent event for creating group norms. It is also a great way to enhance balance and coordination skills. With everyone spread out along each of the three base rails, initiate a group juggling session using a single rubber spider. Emphasize quality tosses, and ask participants to say the name of the person to whom they are tossing. Recipient says tosser s name and "thanks" in return. Slowly add more spiders to see if the group can eventually juggle up to five spiders (without people or spiders falling to the ground). Can be done on or off the base rails. The Steps After stretching, an ideal first activity is to have participants practice stepping on and off the lower base rails. Consider asking them to accomplish this as individuals, as small teams, or as an entire group. More difficult variations of Steps will allow for an easy introduction to the concept of progressions. Additionally, facilitators can use this initiative to help assess some physical skills of the participants, allowing for fine tuning of program design. And finally, the activity may help participants to learn how to gracefully step off the base rail in the event they lose their balance during an initiative. The Perimeter Traverse This is an uncomplicated one. Simply ask everyone to step up on the base rails and cluster around one of the lower tripod legs. Without touching the ground or breaking the human chain, they must successfully circumnavigate the base rails. As with all activities, adjustments can be made by facilitators to fine-tune the activity. Consider allowing participants to touch the Tower legs with shoulders, etc. Instructor Considerations: 1. Spot only if you consider it necessary. The O Brother Shuffle Two groups of participants, each holding hands, stand on separate base rails. The groups must trade base rails without passing on the inside of the legs or walking/stepping on the ground. This is best as a nonverbal initiative. Instructor Considerations: 1. Staff will spot the outside corner where they begin to pass each other. 2. As the groups become more and more tangled, spot participants all along the rails. AT5-1

22 The Tai Chi Traverse Increased difficulty. Use the same set-up and objective as The Perimeter Traverse, but this time the tripod legs are charged with one million volts of electricity. Participants must circumnavigate the base rails without touching the Tower legs while passing on the inside of the Tower legs, and not stepping around the outside of the legs. Instructor Considerations: 1. Instructors will carefully spot the chasm between the base rails. 2. Caution participants about jumping the chasm or straining body parts while attempting the span. No heroics. Penny in the Haystack Materials: penny, initiative board (2 x 10 x 10 ), knotted rope A take-off on the proverbial needle in the haystack. Have the group stand on the base rails and face away from the Tower center. Ask them to close their eyes until they are instructed to re-open them. Hide a penny on the ground in the very center of the base triangle, preferably with only an edge visible. Ask them to open their eyes, turn around, and find and retrieve the hidden penny, using only the initiative board and the knotted rope provided. Neither they nor the plank can touch the ground. Make sure the knotted rope is hanging down. The solution is to first find the penny, then span the base rails with the plank, grab the vertical Tower rope, swing over the penny, retrieve it, and finally retrieve the person. Variation: Use several pennies. Instructor Considerations: 1. Caution against wild heroics (throwing the plank, diving for the rope, etc.), which could result in injury. 2. Consider spotting those who hold the plank and the swingers. AT5-2

23 Trust Falls Participants fall backward into their team s mat of arms. Before being lowered to the ground, they experience the support of their team. Falls may be performed off the highest side of the Piano platform or off another low structure at your facility. Participants begin the process of building trust as a foundation for personal growth and development. Instructor Considerations: 1. Control this initiative carefully. It may seem innocent, but groups have occasionally dropped the faller or someone is injured by the errant elbow. 2. The faller's fingers and hands will be entwined across the stomach to prevent an errant elbow to the eye of a spotter. 3. The faller will be instructed to remain rigid as falling. 4. Spotters will be positioned in two rows, facing one another, shoulder to shoulder. Forearms will be extended, with palms up, to provide a solid mat of arms in zipper fashion. 5. Before granting permission to fall, remind the faller to keep feet firmly planted and body rigid. Falling butt first could penetrate the mat of arms. The Titanic Materials: Sphinx Ring, 150 climbing rope, harness, two carabiners Place the Sphinx Ring in the center of the base triangle. While the group stands on the rails, give them a 150' climbing rope, a harness, and two carabiners to use as resources. They have five minutes to move one person over the hot, boiling oil in the boiler room to the Sphinx Ring in order to fix the leak before the ship sinks. They may not hook into the staple for the Spider Web. Instructor Considerations: 1. Participants are not allowed to climb higher than the base rails. 2. Instructors will spot carefully and ensure adequate knot tying. AT5-3

24 Raising the Sphinx Materials: Sphinx Ring and a climbing rope(s) The Sphinx Ring is the basis for two outstanding initiatives. Both initiatives originate with the placing of a participant (the Sphinx) on the ground in the center of the Tower, sitting, with arms and legs crossed. The group, standing on the base rails and without touching the ground inside the rails, must move the Sphinx. Option 1: Move the Sphinx out of the base rails using only ring and a climbing rope, without utilizing the Tower legs. The solution usually involves passing the climbing rope through the Sphinx ring enough times to provide all participants with a section of rope to pull on, much like a central hub with spokes. The Sphinx gets one free 6 levitation move to sit on the ring. Option 2: Have the climbing ropes positioned for climbing. Tie the ends of the climbing ropes to the circular Sphinx ring rope and maneuver the ring out to the Sphinx. The Sphinx gets one free 6 levitation move to sit on the ring. The group then pulls the ropes to raise and move the Sphinx out to the base rail. Instructor Considerations: 1. Advise the Sphinx to self-spot as necessary. The lifting of the ring may tip a completely rigid Sphinx. 2. Consider advising the group of the perils of lifting while in a balanced position on the rails. The Amazon Materials: initiative board (2 x 10 x 10 ) and helmet (and possibly a reach stick up to 6 feet long, depending on where the pail is placed) Instruct the participants to huddle around a corner of the Tower while standing on the base rails, or stage the event from the middle of a base rail. Place a pail or helmet a distance out from one of the far tripod legs, far enough so that it is barely accessible when a participant, with reach stick extended, is outstretched on the exposed end of the plank (or closer if stick is not provided). Instruct the group to retrieve the pail, which contains a much-needed vaccination provided by the Yanomamo Tribe. Warn them that quicksand is everywhere. An easier variation has quicksand only on the inside of the Tower. Instructor Considerations: 1. Caution the participants about the plank end rising. 2. One instructor will monitor the plank and another will spot the person retrieving the pail. 3. Warn the retrieving person not to place fingers under the end of the board. AT5-4

25 The Traffic Jam Divide a group of ten in half to form two teams per rail. (You may have as many as three groups, one per base rail, working on the solution independently.) The base rails are scored with a series of cross cuts. Each person stands in a square formed by the crosscuts. Teams face one another with an empty square between them. The object is to exchange sides without doing the following: 1) passing one's own team member; 2) moving backwards; 3) passing more than one person per move; and 4) allowing two people to occupy a single space. The solution to this problem is a bit tricky. The formula, in an alternating sequence, follows: One member from Team A moves forward, one member from Team B moves around Team A member, Team B moves a second person forward, each team moves forward, and so on. (Note: Before explaining this activity to a group, first try the activity yourself, using coins to represent people. This will help to ensure successful facilitation.) Instructor Considerations: 1. Spot only if you think it is necessary. Line-up Games Many different line-up games can be performed while the group is standing on the base rails. The facilitator whispers an animal name (from mouse to giraffe!) to each person, and the entire group must line up according to animal height. Using birth dates works well, too. Participants are not allowed to talk during the initiative. AT5-5

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27 Swing by Choice The purpose of the Swing by Choice is to provide an exciting, fun element that requires a commitment by the participant. The Swing by Choice allows participants to choose the height from which they are most comfortable swinging. Procedures for the Swing by Choice (See Illustration 10, Swing by Choice Setup, and (if needed) Illustration 11, Universal Swing Setup, in this section.): The participant uses the double-sided stepladder to access the swing. The participant wears a sit harness (and possibly chest harness), helmet, and safety glasses. Participant clips to the primary cable connection with a locking carabiner. An Omni-Sling, girth hitched to the upper cable back-up loop, is clipped into the harness with a second carabiner. The swing haul rope (black) is set on the belay rail in the same manner as a belay rope. A figure-eight on a bight knot is tied 30 from the outside end of the rope. A carabiner is attached to the figureeight knot. This carabiner is attached to another carabiner clipped into the participant s harness with a short piece of rope using two round turns. The short piece of rope, called the release rope, will be about 24 long and will be a different color than the swing haul rope. One person, designated as the handler, provides slight tension on the long, loose tail (30 of rope beyond the figure-eight knot) to prevent the participant from being pulled too high, causing a free fall drop at the beginning of the arc, and to ensure the tail of the rope is not entangled with either the cable or the participant. (Refer to Illustration 10, Swing by Choice Setup in this section.) The loose end of the rope must be placed on the outside of the participant s thigh to prevent an entanglement upon release. Refrain from having too many individuals on the haul team, as the hauling can happen too quickly, disempowering the swinger from selecting the preferred height. Generally, 7 people is sufficient. The haul team pulls the black haul rope after it runs through a pulley on the Tower base rail, raising the participant to the selected height. The participant communicates with a pre-arranged set of signals to warn the pull team. After acknowledgement, the participant releases the release rope. Procedure for Halyard Snap Release Method: (See Illustration 12, Swing by Choice Halyard Snap Release, Figure 1; and Illustration 13, Swing by Choice Halyard Snap Release, Figure 2 in this section.) There are two ways to use the halyard snap: Participant pulls the release cord directly; or, Using a different set-up, a person on the ground pulls a parachute cord. AT6-1

28 Instructor Considerations: 1. Check the 3 guy cables on the swing pole before each day of use. 2. Do not allow team to pressure a participant into being pulled higher than he or she wishes. 3. Designate one rope as the swing haul rope so it is not accidentally used as a belay rope. Originally, ATI provided a black rope for this purpose. Policies: 1. Participants will complete a Health Disclosure Form. 2. Always pre-test swing system before using. Have two people briefly hang on the swing cable. 3. The maximum participant weight for swinging is 300 lb. 4. Participant will wear a harness, helmet, and safety glasses on the swing. 5. Participant will clip to the swing with one carabiner, and to the Omni- Sling with a second carabiner. 6. Participant will position pull rope tail on outside of the leg, not between the legs. 7. Do not pull the participant higher than 30 feet. 8. Never use the swing haul rope as a belay rope. Swing by Choice Rescue Procedure Refer to Illustration 14, Swing by Choice Rescue Procedure, in this section. AT6-2

29 Illustration 10 Swing By Choice Setup Belay rail Note: 11mm haul rope used for swing hauls only. Not to be used for Tower belay due to glazing of the rope. Swing cable Pulley can be used to make hauling easier. Note: All swingers must wear safety glasses. Figure-eight on a bight 24 release rope Pulley Caution: Make sure haulers grab below pulley. Sling or tether To haulers Base rail No more than 30 of rope tail to ground. Note: Ladder should be stable and supported. Spot for the swinger climbing the ladder. Remove ladder before swinging. Step ladder

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31 Illustration 11 Universal Swing Setup Prusik girth hitched to chest harness and clipped into Omni-Sling with locking carabiner Note: All swingers must wear safety glasses Omni-Sling clipped into harness with locking carabiner Waist belt should be above hip bones

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33 Illustration 12 Swing By Choice Halyard Snap Release, Figure 1 Setup 1 Swing cable attachment To Tower This setup can be used with participants who are capable of pulling their own pull cord. In this technique, the releasable halyard remains on the harness of the swinger. Pull cord Release halyard Haul rope It is very important to monitor the haul line tail, holding it securely. When the swinger releases, the figure-eight knot on a bight and the remaining carabiner may be jettisoned far enough to hit someone on the Tower. Therefore, only the opposite sides of the Tower should be used for climbing. Omni-Sling Release point Figure-eight knot on a bight Haul line to instructor on ground

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35 Illustration 13 Swing By Choice Halyard Snap Release, Figure 2 Swing cable attachment Note: Be sure the parachute cord is not wrapped around the swingers leg. To Tower Setup 2 Figure-eight knot on a bight This technique is used with participants who cannot pull their own release cord. Replace pull cord with parachute cord. The cord runs through the haul line connecting carabiner to a releaser on the ground. When released, the halyard, connecting carabiner, and parachute cord remain on the haul line. Omni-Sling Release point Parachute pull cord through carabiner Parachute pull cord Haul Rope Haul line tail to instructor on the ground

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37 Illustration 14 Swing By Choice Rescue Procedure Note: Always prepare a rescue rope or be prepared to use another rope on site in the event of a swing rescue. Swing cable Rescue Steps: 1. Stop swinger carefully. 2. Assess situation. 3. With ladder, clip rescue rope through carabiner on cable backup tail, then to harness. 4. Rope team hoists swinger up to unload primary connection carabiner. 5. Remove the primary connection carabiner. 6. Team spots swinger as belayer controls lower. Rescue rope Pull Rope Team: Belayer controls lower. Rescue belayer

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39 Supplemental Activities for the Alpine Tower I and II A variety of additional activities may be programmed on the Tower. Programs contemplating new events or activities should consult with ATI prior to implementation to discuss specific considerations. The Egg Drop Materials: For each group 50 plastic soda straws, roll of masking tape, raw egg, extra raw eggs (for accidents) Divide into small groups. Give 50 plastic soda straws and a roll of masking tape to each group. Instruct them to design and build a structure around a raw egg that will protect the egg from a drop off the top of the Tower. Partners pass the egg structure back and forth as they ascend the Tower. Accessible Spider Web Many Alpine Towers have the Spider Web activity as a part of the base rails or as a fixed initiative. The object of this low element is to move the entire group through the available holes without any contact with the web material and to use each opening only once. Over, under, or around the web are not options, nor is contact with the supporting structure to the web. If the parameters are violated, you may start over with the whole group or just have that one individual try again. Instructor Considerations: 1. Practice spotting and lifting people prior to this activity (without providing a solution), and emphasize spotting when individuals are passed through the web. Policy: 1. Do not allow dynamic movements, such as diving or high jumping. AT7-1

40 Partner Events on the Tower Partner events are another strong program option on the Tower. ATI suggests that partnering on the Tower is introduced only after individuals have accomplished several ascents of the Tower. It is possible, if time is limited and group goals dictate, to allow participants to ascend the Tower with a partner for their first attempt. Some people may be more nervous to do so, while others will find it reassuring. In specific instances, such as parent-child experiences, programs may wish to focus solely on partnering. Instructor Considerations: 1. Frame the experience: Discuss teamwork, physically assisting one another, communication, etc. 2. Use of tethers: 6 piece of climbing rope with figure-eight on a bight knot at each rope end and locking carabiners on each end, which is clipped to the front of the harness. 3. Tether entanglement: If the tether becomes tangled, encourage partners to work through the problem. If severe tangling occurs, you may instruct participants to simply unclip and re-position the tether. 4. Present the partner events: Team Beam, Missing Link, Corporate Ladder, Floating Poles, the Beanstalk, the Diabolical Seesaw, and variations that are possible on each route parallel climbing, switching leaders, etc. 5. Encourage partners to physically assist each other: Body-to-body contact is best, but tether-pulling is acceptable. (Modern free climbing ethics need not apply to the partner events.) However, do not allow partners to hold onto one another when dismounting. Their combined body weight above their harnesses could cause them to invert. 6. Lowering of partners: The process is exactly the same as in single lowers. The participants are instructed to sit at the edge of the platform with legs dangling. Always conduct a thorough 5-point check with a staff member before lowering. After the go ahead is given by both the belayer and the staff member, both partners wiggle off the edge and become airborne. After airborne, partners may hold on to one another tightly as they are lowered. (Note: Do not allow participants to hold onto each other while they are wiggling off the platform. Doing so may result in an upside-down flip. Avoid flips as a climber in this position could conceivably fall out of the harness. Always remember to instruct the participant to snug the harness waist belt firmly around the stomach, above the hip bone.) Policies: 1. Each climber has a separate belay. 2. Do not allow partners to hold one another as they dismount from the deck. 3. Use a tether and carabiners, rather than knots, to attach the two climbers, ensuring that they can unclip their tether if they get tangled. AT7-2

41 The Sloth Beam Regain Here's a difficult individual challenge on the Team Beam that will take some of the energy out of an overly-energetic individual or group. With arms and legs wrapped around the underside of the pole like a sloth, the object is to regain the top of the Team Beam pole. Ensure that the participant never hangs completely upside down. Instructor Considerations: 1. Beware of splinters! Ensure the poles are well-sanded. 2. Long pants and long sleeve shirts are recommended. Dating Sloths This is similar to the Sloth Beam Regain, but performed with two people. The object is to gain the Team Beam by helping one another. There are several variations: Both people can hang like the sloth, or one person may start from a sitting position on top of the Team Beam. Instructor Considerations: 1. Beware of splinters! Ensure the poles are well-sanded. 2. Long pants and long-sleeve shirts are recommended. Slack Wire Walking Many Alpine Towers have a slack wire pole near the base. Wire walking (like juggling) is a powerful tool for developing self confidence through accomplishing a task that initially seems impossible. It focuses on the mastery of a skill by an individual. Most participants can walk the wire alone after only three, 20-minute practice sessions. The key is to ask the participant to commit to three lengthy sessions vs. three tries. This event is better suited to groups who can revisit the Tower on sequential days. Begin by asking participants to walk along the base rails a few times. Before moving to the wire, make sure everyone knows to simply step off the wire when they lose their balance. (Trying to keep one s feet on the wire may result in a head-first fall.) With a spotter on each side of the walker, practice stepping on and off several times. As a walker moves across the wire, spotters will gradually decrease the amount of support given. Remind the walker to relax, keep knees bent, focus on the end of the wire, concentrate, and breathe. Eventually, it will come to him/her just like riding a bike. The participant may be very proud of the new skill. Advanced tricks include turns, walking backwards, and walking with a partner. When the walker is proficient, spotters may be deemed unnecessary. Instructor Considerations: 1. Ensure the wire and bolts are secure. 2. Remind participants to simply step off the wire when they lose their balance. 3. Initially, when walking across the wire, walkers may be assisted by spotters. AT7-3

42 Night Climbs For groups who have demonstrated proficiency on the Tower during the day, night ascents can be offered, adding a new and exciting element to the standard climbing program curriculum. Instructor Considerations: 1. Provide lighting to be able to perform a hands-on check of knots and to monitor belay techniques. 2. When the climber is properly belayed and monitored, individuals can choose the level of illumination based upon the desired challenge. 3. Headlamps may be used by participants. Climbers attach the headlamps to their helmets. 4. Propane lanterns may be hung under the top deck, hauled up, and suspended by an extra haul line, or simply placed on the ground. Give special care to any equipment used around the lanterns, as ropes, harnesses, and haul lines are all flammable. 5. Some programs in hot climates have installed light poles or ground-up lighting to expand their programming time into the cooler hours of the evening and night. One caution here climbing by this type of lighting changes the uniqueness of the night climbing experience. This is still a good option, but be aware of the trade-offs. Policy: 1. All elements of the climbing belay systems are the same. Group Bivouac After your group has experienced night climbing or as culmination to night climbing, a group of six people may bivouac or bivy (spend the night) on the deck of the Tower. Instructor Considerations: 1. One experienced staff, at a minimum, is needed for a group of five. 2. Weather is harder to see coming in at night, so be aware of your forecast. Discuss your emergency plan, and have it in place. 3. Haul up or climb to the top carrying everything you need to bivy. 4. Lower participants to the ground if a bathroom is needed. A pee bottle can be used on top of the Tower. Participants must remain in their harnesses. 5. From the top, belay the last climber up. Or a staff member can solo ascend the Tower using the procedures in this manual. AT7-4

43 Policies: 1. All climbing belay systems are the same. 2. No more than six participants on upper deck of the Tower, including staff, at any one time. 3. A staff member will ascend the Tower and set up the necessary anchors and lowering systems for emergencies. Staff will have two separate lowering systems set up and ready to go in the case of lightning or other emergencies. 4. As participants reach the top deck, they will connect to the new anchors with a tether first, and then untie and lower the belay rope to the next climber. 5. Participants will be appropriately tied into the belay rails, belay rope, or to the swing cables when on the upper deck. 6. Participants will stay in their harness and tethers until they are back on the ground. This will require some creative thinking on how best to position your tether while in the sleeping bag. Rappelling Rappelling is a popular activity with participants and may be programmatically appropriate for certain populations. Consideration for time allocation of this event are important. Additional hands-on training is recommended for this event and can be easily incorporated into an annual Structural Inspection or Program Review. Policies: 1. No more than six participants on upper deck of Tower, including staff, at any one time. 2. Make sure all clothing, hair, helmet straps, etc. are secured in a way that keeps them from getting caught in the rappel device. 3. All staff and participant rappels will be belayed with a separate belay rope. 4. Participants will be appropriately tied into the belay rails, belay rope, or to the swing cables when on the upper deck. 5. Use double rappel ropes for the load lines. 6. Staff will be trained in rappel rescue techniques prior to setting up the rappel. 7. A rappel lowering system is pre-rigged and in place at the top of the Tower with staff trained to use it for rescue/emergency purposes. (See Illustration 15, Rappel Lowering System, in this section.) AT7-5

44 The Tower Pull Materials: 100-foot rope Use this initiative only after a group has accomplished multiple ascents of the Tower and seems ready for a more difficult assignment. It requires eighteen people, working together, to solve the problem. Have all belay stations and participants (6 climbers, 6 belayers, 6 monitors) ready to go. Using a 100' rope, lay it on the ground circling the Tower, and tie the ends together. The objective is for all the climbers, with guidance and tension from belayers and monitors, to work the giant rope circle all the way to the top rails of the Tower, placing as much rope as possible on the top deck. Single Rope Technique (SRT) SRT, the art of ascending and descending fixed ropes, is the primary method used by cavers to negotiate vertical caves. These techniques, described in the book On Rope, may be incorporated as a Tower program activity. (Note: A belay will be used as a back-up.) Mountain Rescue Techniques A variety of technical rescue methods can be set up on the Tower. Pick-offs, rappel rescues, litter lowers, and lead climber rescue techniques are ideal for use in staff training workshops. Participants Teaching Participants For certain programs (such as multi-week or multi-month programs) allowing the participants to teach others promotes the transfer of responsibility. Consider the impact of allowing young teenagers to teach Tower rescue techniques to local police or fire departments! Family Days or Public Demonstrations This is best suited for long term residential-type programs. Having young participants demonstrate the art of climbing to families, friends, or the general public is a positive technique for instilling importance and pride in younger groups. For youth with considerable experience, consider having them serve as facilitators, providing them the opportunity to teach with staff supervision. Register Some programs offer a sign-in register on the top platform or at the Karma Platform, similar to those found on mountain summits. Documenting one s accomplishments is a means of acknowledging and celebrating success. The placement of the register at the Karma Platform, midway on the Tower, helps to encourage participants to recognize that the top may not be the only goal. AT7-6

45 Rappeller Illustration 15 Rappel Lowering System The pre-rigged Rappel Lowering System is a useful technique for dealing with difficult situations should the victim need to be lowered quickly while still on belay. Double locking carabiners One 150 rope, doubled Always secure end of auxiliary rope Belay device locked off and secured with an overhand-on-a-bight clipped off Figure-eight knots on bights in middle of rope Belay rope Other Rappel Rescue Techniques: -Victim frees self after doing a leg wrap -Brief vector pull on belay rope -Victim steps up in a prusik -Victim steps up in an etrier Note: Participants should always be on belay when rappelling

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47 Universal Challenge Activities The original Alpine Tower I design has been adapted for Universal programming with diverse groups, including people with disabilities. The Alpine Tower II offers a variety of challenges and group problem-solving events suitable for any group, but the real magic of the concept comes alive when people with and without disabilities come together, as a team, to tackle the challenges of the Tower experience. A deeper understanding of individual needs and cultural differences often results. The Alpine Tower II concept was created by Mike Fischesser, founder of Alpine Towers, Inc. with Chris Roland and Don Rogers of Roland/Diamond Associates. Chris and Don are pioneers in the field of accessible adventure challenges. The following Universal programming activities can be used by people of all abilities. The Piano Purpose: The Piano was added to the base leg of the Tower to provide an alternate, accessible route on the Tower. Any population deemed appropriate by staff can use it. Team Beam Deck Purpose: The deck may serve as a destination/goal, resting spot, or transfer point. The Entrance Net, Piano, and Knotted Rope converge at this deck. Policies: 1. Participants and staff will be on belay while on the Team Beam Deck. Entrance Net Purpose: To provide an alternate Universal access to the mid-level area of the Tower. Instructor Considerations: 1. The belay rope will be set properly to allow participants access up the net to the Team Beam platform. 2. The last person off the Tower secures the Entrance Net and Knotted Rope to the Team Beam Deck. AT8-1

48 Team Hoist Purpose: The Team Hoist was designed to allow people with disabilities to access various points on the Tower. It may be rigged over the Team Beam Deck or at other points on the Tower. Emphasis will be placed on overcoming personal fears and support for fellow teammates. (Position an appropriate participant on the Tower to provide support for climbers as they pass through.) Set-Up: An extra rope, attached to the climber s harness, runs over the belay rails or through one high pulley and through a second pulley on the base rail. Instructor Considerations: 1. Some people with disabilities may only be able to communicate with eye movements. In this case, staff and/or fellow participants may need to position themselves at various levels in the Tower to monitor preplanned eye signals designated for up, down, or stop commands. 2. Appoint one person to serve as communicator for the pulling team. 3. Proceed slowly and do not over-pull when the participant nears the top. Policies: 1. Staff will be thoroughly familiar with the set-up before attempting with participants. 2. A separate belay will always be used. 3. Never allow staff to experiment with mechanical advantage haul systems on a participant. 4. No more than 7 people will be used to pull the participant up unless more are required due to the group s strength limitations and/or size. (See Illustration 16, Team Hoist, in this section.) AT8-2

49 Illustration 16 Team Hoist Detailed View Prusik attached to chest harness Detailed View Locking carabiner Pulley Upper rail Belay rail Locking carabiner Figure-eight on a bight Belay rope Hoist rope Hoist rope Note: -Be careful not to pull climber into pulley -Caution climber to keep hands from pulley Base rail To 4-7 member haul team

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51 Counterbalance Hoist Purpose: This event is similar to the Team Hoist, but with the added goal of sharing the experience with a partner. Set-Up: Climber on the ground attaches to one end of counterbalance rope. Climber on the upper Tower deck ties in to other end of rope, close to the pulley positioned in the 1-inch eyebolt on the upper rail. Belay rope may be used to assist the lower climber as that climber moves upward. Instructor Considerations: 1. Use the belay ropes to assist with the pull or to slow the descent of a heavier participant. 2. Tie the knots as small as possible to allow the participant to reach the Upper Deck without much climbing. 3. Caution participants to keep fingers, hair, and clothing away from pulley. Policies: 1. A separate belay will always be used. 2. Staff will be familiar with the set-up before attempting with participants. (See Illustration 17, Counterbalance Hoist, in this section.) AT8-3

52 4:1 Haul Safe System Purpose: The 4:1 Haul Safe System allows individuals with upper body strength but with limited or no lower body function to ascend the Tower using a mechanical advantage system. A series of pulleys creates a 4:1 mechanical advantage system. Set-Up: Always belay climber using standard ATI belay protocol, including a belay monitor. Threading of the pulley system is complex, so setting up in advance is recommended. (See Illustration 18, 4:1 Haul Safe, in this section for a diagram of the setup.) Directionals can be used to position the 4:1 in various Tower locations. Standard set-up is off the 1-inch eyebolt on the upper rail. Instructor considerations: 1. Consider advanced set-up prior to participant arrival. 2. Ensure releasable system is used on the systems support rope in the event the entire system needs to be lowered. Policies: 1. Staff will be familiar with the set-up before attempting with participants. 2. A separate belay will always be used. 3. Never allow staff to experiment with mechanical advantage haul systems on a participant. Additional activities: See also the Swing by Choice in Section AT6, Swing by Choice, which includes Illustration 11, Universal Swing Setup; and the Accessible Spider Web in Section AT7, Supplemental Activities for the Alpine Tower I and II. AT8-4