In the Member Activities Reviewed forum, there is a recent thread on Canyoning. It mentions some injuries. It would be nice to share information and discuss suggestions with members who enjoy dangerous sports/hobbies on how to reduce injury and prevent serious accidents.
I bring this topic up because I am reminded of some things. I am a licensed skydiver, licensed pilot, etc. and prone to exploring unusual things. While I enjoy all this, with sadness, I acknowledge the fact that the person who taught me to skydive, died in a skydiving accident. I also admit that I have experienced unusual situations such as my main parachute not opening (back up opened flawlessly).
So, things can go wrong.
One option is to stop. Another is to figure out how to enjoy life while reducing the likelihood of an accident. In my humble opinion and experience, the frequency of things going wrong can be dramatically reduced.
I hope other GoL members would join in and share their experiences and suggestions on how to keep the fun alive in outdoor activities in general, and dangerous sports in particular; and what prevents injuries during dangerous sports?
Here are some suggestions. (To give credit where it is due, please note that many of the suggestions that follow are from my friends and instructors who taught or helped me get deeper and deeper into a specific sport. I am just typing away what I remember) –
Get lessons from a professional or someone experienced. Or, do a tandem jump if you do not want to go through the necessary training.
Let the professional or experienced person go first.
Most accidents happen at one of the two locations. The start – when you are taking off, or starting to jump or somersault or whatever. Or, at the end – when you are landing on ground or into water, or breaking to slow down. Take care at the start and the end.
Know your limits. If you have never done it before, start with a simplest version of the sport.
Leave room for error. Leave room at the start of the thrill, during the action, and where the thrill ends. If you are walking or jumping and sliding over a slippery slope, leave room for error.
Check the instrument you are going to use. If you are going to rely on some equipment (parachute, wheels and breaks, engine and fuel, whatever) – check it yourself, at the starting point.
Once you land or reach the end, do not leave the equipment or throw your stuff. Wires and threads can trip other friends of yours. Wet suits can be slippery. Etc.
Recognize and accept human factor. People may exhibit undesirable behavior when they are in stressful situations. If someone is behaving odd, recognize it and accept it. Confrontation during a dangerous sport can increase chances of serious accidents to one or more people. Keep your cool. If you are going on a multi-day trip involving dangerous sport or travel adventure, find and go with people who have similar goals, attitudes and compatible personality.
If you are not feeling well (fever, cold, dizziness, etc), avoid the sport. There will be another day, when you feel better and when your faculties are more responsive. This is very important in group scenarios – when the peer pressure is high to join in the sport. There is a time to – Just do it. And, there is a time to – Just don’t. Have the courage to know when to say no.
Do not drink alcohol and then attempt a dangerous sport. Not only can you put yourself in danger, you can put others around you in danger.
If you are not physically active on a routine basis, you may or may not have physical flexibility needed for the sport. Less flexibility increases the likelihood of injury. If possible, train/stretch/exercise before the event.
No matter how experienced and physically fit you are – accidents can and may happen. Accidents happen to the very best – during the Olympics, in sport stadiums, and elsewhere. Be prepared. Have a mobile phone. Know the emergency number to call for help. If you feel continuous concentrated pain, or feel dizzy, get professional help.
Safety can enhance the thrill, without limiting it.
I stop there. I welcome your suggestions on preventing injuries during dangerous sports.
Global Forums > General > ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
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...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Jun 26, 2007 @ 17:43
The text you are quoting:
In the Member Activities Reviewed forum, there is a recent thread on Canyoning. It mentions some injuries. It would be nice to share information and discuss suggestions with members who enjoy dangerous sports/hobbies on how to reduce injury and prevent serious accidents.
I bring this topic up because I am reminded of some things. I am a licensed skydiver, licensed pilot, etc. and prone to exploring unusual things. While I enjoy all this, with sadness, I acknowledge the fact that the person who taught me to skydive, died in a skydiving accident. I also admit that I have experienced unusual situations such as my main parachute not opening (back up opened flawlessly).
So, things can go wrong.
One option is to stop. Another is to figure out how to enjoy life while reducing the likelihood of an accident. In my humble opinion and experience, the frequency of things going wrong can be dramatically reduced.
I hope other GoL members would join in and share their experiences and suggestions on how to keep the fun alive in outdoor activities in general, and dangerous sports in particular; and what prevents injuries during dangerous sports?
Here are some suggestions. (To give credit where it is due, please note that many of the suggestions that follow are from my friends and instructors who taught or helped me get deeper and deeper into a specific sport. I am just typing away what I remember) –
Get lessons from a professional or someone experienced. Or, do a tandem jump if you do not want to go through the necessary training.
Let the professional or experienced person go first.
Most accidents happen at one of the two locations. The start – when you are taking off, or starting to jump or somersault or whatever. Or, at the end – when you are landing on ground or into water, or breaking to slow down. Take care at the start and the end.
Know your limits. If you have never done it before, start with a simplest version of the sport.
Leave room for error. Leave room at the start of the thrill, during the action, and where the thrill ends. If you are walking or jumping and sliding over a slippery slope, leave room for error.
Check the instrument you are going to use. If you are going to rely on some equipment (parachute, wheels and breaks, engine and fuel, whatever) – check it yourself, at the starting point.
Once you land or reach the end, do not leave the equipment or throw your stuff. Wires and threads can trip other friends of yours. Wet suits can be slippery. Etc.
Recognize and accept human factor. People may exhibit undesirable behavior when they are in stressful situations. If someone is behaving odd, recognize it and accept it. Confrontation during a dangerous sport can increase chances of serious accidents to one or more people. Keep your cool. If you are going on a multi-day trip involving dangerous sport or travel adventure, find and go with people who have similar goals, attitudes and compatible personality.
If you are not feeling well (fever, cold, dizziness, etc), avoid the sport. There will be another day, when you feel better and when your faculties are more responsive. This is very important in group scenarios – when the peer pressure is high to join in the sport. There is a time to – Just do it. And, there is a time to – Just don’t. Have the courage to know when to say no.
Do not drink alcohol and then attempt a dangerous sport. Not only can you put yourself in danger, you can put others around you in danger.
If you are not physically active on a routine basis, you may or may not have physical flexibility needed for the sport. Less flexibility increases the likelihood of injury. If possible, train/stretch/exercise before the event.
No matter how experienced and physically fit you are – accidents can and may happen. Accidents happen to the very best – during the Olympics, in sport stadiums, and elsewhere. Be prepared. Have a mobile phone. Know the emergency number to call for help. If you feel continuous concentrated pain, or feel dizzy, get professional help.
Safety can enhance the thrill, without limiting it.
I stop there. I welcome your suggestions on preventing injuries during dangerous sports.
coloradoJun 26, 2007 @ 17:43
I bring this topic up because I am reminded of some things. I am a licensed skydiver, licensed pilot, etc. and prone to exploring unusual things. While I enjoy all this, with sadness, I acknowledge the fact that the person who taught me to skydive, died in a skydiving accident. I also admit that I have experienced unusual situations such as my main parachute not opening (back up opened flawlessly).
So, things can go wrong.
One option is to stop. Another is to figure out how to enjoy life while reducing the likelihood of an accident. In my humble opinion and experience, the frequency of things going wrong can be dramatically reduced.
I hope other GoL members would join in and share their experiences and suggestions on how to keep the fun alive in outdoor activities in general, and dangerous sports in particular; and what prevents injuries during dangerous sports?
Here are some suggestions. (To give credit where it is due, please note that many of the suggestions that follow are from my friends and instructors who taught or helped me get deeper and deeper into a specific sport. I am just typing away what I remember) –
Get lessons from a professional or someone experienced. Or, do a tandem jump if you do not want to go through the necessary training.
Let the professional or experienced person go first.
Most accidents happen at one of the two locations. The start – when you are taking off, or starting to jump or somersault or whatever. Or, at the end – when you are landing on ground or into water, or breaking to slow down. Take care at the start and the end.
Know your limits. If you have never done it before, start with a simplest version of the sport.
Leave room for error. Leave room at the start of the thrill, during the action, and where the thrill ends. If you are walking or jumping and sliding over a slippery slope, leave room for error.
Check the instrument you are going to use. If you are going to rely on some equipment (parachute, wheels and breaks, engine and fuel, whatever) – check it yourself, at the starting point.
Once you land or reach the end, do not leave the equipment or throw your stuff. Wires and threads can trip other friends of yours. Wet suits can be slippery. Etc.
Recognize and accept human factor. People may exhibit undesirable behavior when they are in stressful situations. If someone is behaving odd, recognize it and accept it. Confrontation during a dangerous sport can increase chances of serious accidents to one or more people. Keep your cool. If you are going on a multi-day trip involving dangerous sport or travel adventure, find and go with people who have similar goals, attitudes and compatible personality.
If you are not feeling well (fever, cold, dizziness, etc), avoid the sport. There will be another day, when you feel better and when your faculties are more responsive. This is very important in group scenarios – when the peer pressure is high to join in the sport. There is a time to – Just do it. And, there is a time to – Just don’t. Have the courage to know when to say no.
Do not drink alcohol and then attempt a dangerous sport. Not only can you put yourself in danger, you can put others around you in danger.
If you are not physically active on a routine basis, you may or may not have physical flexibility needed for the sport. Less flexibility increases the likelihood of injury. If possible, train/stretch/exercise before the event.
No matter how experienced and physically fit you are – accidents can and may happen. Accidents happen to the very best – during the Olympics, in sport stadiums, and elsewhere. Be prepared. Have a mobile phone. Know the emergency number to call for help. If you feel continuous concentrated pain, or feel dizzy, get professional help.
Safety can enhance the thrill, without limiting it.
I stop there. I welcome your suggestions on preventing injuries during dangerous sports.
coloradoJun 26, 2007 @ 17:43
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 1
Jun 26, 2007 @ 18:34
(These are no professional advices, just personal observations. I decline any kind of responsibility if something bad happens to someone because of this thread. You're warned.)
Here's something quite helpful. The REGA donation ( www.rega.ch )only costs 30.- per year. It covers all costs for medical transfer from the accident location (helicopter with qualified medical staff in Switzerland or sanitary flight back to Switzerland if you get injured in foreign countries) to the best equipped swiss hospital depending on your injury type. For example, a sanitary flight back from the USA costs 150'000.-...
As a geologist, I really recommand it. I feel safer on the field, is it in the countryside or at the end of the world.
Anyway, my other advices are to know your limits and be wise!
As Colorado said: be well rested.
Pay attention to some drugs side effects (some combine themselves extremely bad with sun exposure, for example), heat, dehydratation (a terrible enemy).
A survival blanket and a box of weatherproof matches are mandatory.
Always carry enough water. Me and my adventure mates use to carry water for two, in case one of us loses his water.
Never EVER go hiking without warm clothes, even in the hottest summer day: the mountain climate changes very fast and temperatures can go below zero even in summer at low altitude. I experienced 30°, rain, thunderstorm and snow the same day on the GR-20 track in Corsica. I remember blessing my wool pullover and mountain jacket (that were just enough!).
I recommand also to carry an emergency food supply, in case you get stuck somewhere during the night. It doesn't weight much and is REALLY helpful.
In the cold, try to remain dry: it saves your energy.
Being well prepared and having good material should not create overconfidence! Remain careful.
If you're going for some adventure, do not go alone, and be sure that someone knows where you're going and basically your time planning, in case something bad happens.
Have fun in your adventures, and come back sound and safe!
Syd.
Here's something quite helpful. The REGA donation ( www.rega.ch )only costs 30.- per year. It covers all costs for medical transfer from the accident location (helicopter with qualified medical staff in Switzerland or sanitary flight back to Switzerland if you get injured in foreign countries) to the best equipped swiss hospital depending on your injury type. For example, a sanitary flight back from the USA costs 150'000.-...
As a geologist, I really recommand it. I feel safer on the field, is it in the countryside or at the end of the world.
Anyway, my other advices are to know your limits and be wise!
As Colorado said: be well rested.
Pay attention to some drugs side effects (some combine themselves extremely bad with sun exposure, for example), heat, dehydratation (a terrible enemy).
A survival blanket and a box of weatherproof matches are mandatory.
Always carry enough water. Me and my adventure mates use to carry water for two, in case one of us loses his water.
Never EVER go hiking without warm clothes, even in the hottest summer day: the mountain climate changes very fast and temperatures can go below zero even in summer at low altitude. I experienced 30°, rain, thunderstorm and snow the same day on the GR-20 track in Corsica. I remember blessing my wool pullover and mountain jacket (that were just enough!).
I recommand also to carry an emergency food supply, in case you get stuck somewhere during the night. It doesn't weight much and is REALLY helpful.
In the cold, try to remain dry: it saves your energy.
Being well prepared and having good material should not create overconfidence! Remain careful.
If you're going for some adventure, do not go alone, and be sure that someone knows where you're going and basically your time planning, in case something bad happens.
Have fun in your adventures, and come back sound and safe!
Syd.
The text you are quoting:
(These are no professional advices, just personal observations. I decline any kind of responsibility if something bad happens to someone because of this thread. You're warned.)
Here's something quite helpful. The REGA donation ( www.rega.ch )only costs 30.- per year. It covers all costs for medical transfer from the accident location (helicopter with qualified medical staff in Switzerland or sanitary flight back to Switzerland if you get injured in foreign countries) to the best equipped swiss hospital depending on your injury type. For example, a sanitary flight back from the USA costs 150'000.-...
As a geologist, I really recommand it. I feel safer on the field, is it in the countryside or at the end of the world.
Anyway, my other advices are to know your limits and be wise!
As Colorado said: be well rested.
Pay attention to some drugs side effects (some combine themselves extremely bad with sun exposure, for example), heat, dehydratation (a terrible enemy).
A survival blanket and a box of weatherproof matches are mandatory.
Always carry enough water. Me and my adventure mates use to carry water for two, in case one of us loses his water.
Never EVER go hiking without warm clothes, even in the hottest summer day: the mountain climate changes very fast and temperatures can go below zero even in summer at low altitude. I experienced 30°, rain, thunderstorm and snow the same day on the GR-20 track in Corsica. I remember blessing my wool pullover and mountain jacket (that were just enough!).
I recommand also to carry an emergency food supply, in case you get stuck somewhere during the night. It doesn't weight much and is REALLY helpful.
In the cold, try to remain dry: it saves your energy.
Being well prepared and having good material should not create overconfidence! Remain careful.
If you're going for some adventure, do not go alone, and be sure that someone knows where you're going and basically your time planning, in case something bad happens.
Have fun in your adventures, and come back sound and safe!
Syd.
Syd_Brown, Jun 26, 2007 @ 18:34
Here's something quite helpful. The REGA donation ( www.rega.ch )only costs 30.- per year. It covers all costs for medical transfer from the accident location (helicopter with qualified medical staff in Switzerland or sanitary flight back to Switzerland if you get injured in foreign countries) to the best equipped swiss hospital depending on your injury type. For example, a sanitary flight back from the USA costs 150'000.-...
As a geologist, I really recommand it. I feel safer on the field, is it in the countryside or at the end of the world.
Anyway, my other advices are to know your limits and be wise!
As Colorado said: be well rested.
Pay attention to some drugs side effects (some combine themselves extremely bad with sun exposure, for example), heat, dehydratation (a terrible enemy).
A survival blanket and a box of weatherproof matches are mandatory.
Always carry enough water. Me and my adventure mates use to carry water for two, in case one of us loses his water.
Never EVER go hiking without warm clothes, even in the hottest summer day: the mountain climate changes very fast and temperatures can go below zero even in summer at low altitude. I experienced 30°, rain, thunderstorm and snow the same day on the GR-20 track in Corsica. I remember blessing my wool pullover and mountain jacket (that were just enough!).
I recommand also to carry an emergency food supply, in case you get stuck somewhere during the night. It doesn't weight much and is REALLY helpful.
In the cold, try to remain dry: it saves your energy.
Being well prepared and having good material should not create overconfidence! Remain careful.
If you're going for some adventure, do not go alone, and be sure that someone knows where you're going and basically your time planning, in case something bad happens.
Have fun in your adventures, and come back sound and safe!
Syd.
Syd_Brown, Jun 26, 2007 @ 18:34
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 2
Jun 26, 2007 @ 21:24
Since most of the practical aspects are well covered from Colorado and Syd_Brown in the previous threads, as the organizer of the canyoning activity I have to share my own observations but from a different angle. I love outdoors and often participate in adventurous activities and I think it is important to have a good preparation plan before you participate in any activity. Since there is risk in anything we do but the more prepared you are, the better the chances of avoiding risk and getting out of any danger situation.
First of all, learn as much as possible about the activity you are going to participate well in advance. Good information through website, friends experiences, forums etc, would help you to learn everything you need to know about the activity, difficulty level, fitness requirement, learn about the risks involved and the type of incidents likely to occur. This might sound too obvious but it is worth mentioning to avoid any tendency in this community to sign up for activities without any idea where they are getting themselves into. We are all here to share great moments and try something different but we can’t simply put the trust in one person and follow them blindly without us doing our homework and been responsible. You need to make an informative decision so you can avoid significant risks upfront not only for yourself but the group also.
Second, know your limits! Nobody but you knows how much risk you can afford taking. Don`t assume the others would know that. As Colorado mentioned, if this is a new activity for you, make sure it is simple enough so you can still experience, enjoy and have fun without exposing yourself to danger. Stop if you feel uncomfortable and in case the group happens to be more risk taker than you are, absolutely there is no need to follow…go for a simpler route. You might find yourself in such position so please read the next paragraph:
Third, be as organized as an organizer:) Collect info about the area, bring your phone, trail maps, slope maps, emergency phone numbers, train schedules, anything you can think of use. This not only will give you alternatives in case you would want to go with your own pace but can make your and your friends life easier in case something bad happens. Also, importantly, find out about other people’s ambitions for the activity and fitness level right at the start. This way you will make sure you do not end up alone in case the group splits.
First of all, learn as much as possible about the activity you are going to participate well in advance. Good information through website, friends experiences, forums etc, would help you to learn everything you need to know about the activity, difficulty level, fitness requirement, learn about the risks involved and the type of incidents likely to occur. This might sound too obvious but it is worth mentioning to avoid any tendency in this community to sign up for activities without any idea where they are getting themselves into. We are all here to share great moments and try something different but we can’t simply put the trust in one person and follow them blindly without us doing our homework and been responsible. You need to make an informative decision so you can avoid significant risks upfront not only for yourself but the group also.
Second, know your limits! Nobody but you knows how much risk you can afford taking. Don`t assume the others would know that. As Colorado mentioned, if this is a new activity for you, make sure it is simple enough so you can still experience, enjoy and have fun without exposing yourself to danger. Stop if you feel uncomfortable and in case the group happens to be more risk taker than you are, absolutely there is no need to follow…go for a simpler route. You might find yourself in such position so please read the next paragraph:
Third, be as organized as an organizer:) Collect info about the area, bring your phone, trail maps, slope maps, emergency phone numbers, train schedules, anything you can think of use. This not only will give you alternatives in case you would want to go with your own pace but can make your and your friends life easier in case something bad happens. Also, importantly, find out about other people’s ambitions for the activity and fitness level right at the start. This way you will make sure you do not end up alone in case the group splits.
The text you are quoting:
Since most of the practical aspects are well covered from Colorado and Syd_Brown in the previous threads, as the organizer of the canyoning activity I have to share my own observations but from a different angle. I love outdoors and often participate in adventurous activities and I think it is important to have a good preparation plan before you participate in any activity. Since there is risk in anything we do but the more prepared you are, the better the chances of avoiding risk and getting out of any danger situation.
First of all, learn as much as possible about the activity you are going to participate well in advance. Good information through website, friends experiences, forums etc, would help you to learn everything you need to know about the activity, difficulty level, fitness requirement, learn about the risks involved and the type of incidents likely to occur. This might sound too obvious but it is worth mentioning to avoid any tendency in this community to sign up for activities without any idea where they are getting themselves into. We are all here to share great moments and try something different but we can’t simply put the trust in one person and follow them blindly without us doing our homework and been responsible. You need to make an informative decision so you can avoid significant risks upfront not only for yourself but the group also.
Second, know your limits! Nobody but you knows how much risk you can afford taking. Don`t assume the others would know that. As Colorado mentioned, if this is a new activity for you, make sure it is simple enough so you can still experience, enjoy and have fun without exposing yourself to danger. Stop if you feel uncomfortable and in case the group happens to be more risk taker than you are, absolutely there is no need to follow…go for a simpler route. You might find yourself in such position so please read the next paragraph:
Third, be as organized as an organizer:) Collect info about the area, bring your phone, trail maps, slope maps, emergency phone numbers, train schedules, anything you can think of use. This not only will give you alternatives in case you would want to go with your own pace but can make your and your friends life easier in case something bad happens. Also, importantly, find out about other people’s ambitions for the activity and fitness level right at the start. This way you will make sure you do not end up alone in case the group splits.
di2006, Jun 26, 2007 @ 21:24
First of all, learn as much as possible about the activity you are going to participate well in advance. Good information through website, friends experiences, forums etc, would help you to learn everything you need to know about the activity, difficulty level, fitness requirement, learn about the risks involved and the type of incidents likely to occur. This might sound too obvious but it is worth mentioning to avoid any tendency in this community to sign up for activities without any idea where they are getting themselves into. We are all here to share great moments and try something different but we can’t simply put the trust in one person and follow them blindly without us doing our homework and been responsible. You need to make an informative decision so you can avoid significant risks upfront not only for yourself but the group also.
Second, know your limits! Nobody but you knows how much risk you can afford taking. Don`t assume the others would know that. As Colorado mentioned, if this is a new activity for you, make sure it is simple enough so you can still experience, enjoy and have fun without exposing yourself to danger. Stop if you feel uncomfortable and in case the group happens to be more risk taker than you are, absolutely there is no need to follow…go for a simpler route. You might find yourself in such position so please read the next paragraph:
Third, be as organized as an organizer:) Collect info about the area, bring your phone, trail maps, slope maps, emergency phone numbers, train schedules, anything you can think of use. This not only will give you alternatives in case you would want to go with your own pace but can make your and your friends life easier in case something bad happens. Also, importantly, find out about other people’s ambitions for the activity and fitness level right at the start. This way you will make sure you do not end up alone in case the group splits.
di2006, Jun 26, 2007 @ 21:24
Your Reply:
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 3
Jun 27, 2007 @ 01:04
Julian has good suggestions. Listening to oneself, helps.
Yet, sometimes, danger or challenge has an irrestible pull. Just as Julian says, I can usually sense that a particular danger is beyond my comfort level. Unfortunately, this is not where the story ends, and that is not where I stop. I love to push the limits, cross what seems impossible, leap beyond the boundaries. May be, there are others here who feel the same draw. So, I will explain a bit more and share my perspective.
I agree with Julian that the first step is to listen to the "inner voice." There are things that are meant to be, and we sort of know instinctively that we want to take the chance, that we should take the chance.
And then, there are things where our "inner voice" whispers either a "no" or "I am not sure." Despite this answer, sometimes it seems to pull irrestibly, it seems one's call, one's aspiration, one's dream. Giving up easily is unnecessary. These things too can be achieved. Impulse does not help then. Preparation, objectivity and persistence does.
By preparation, I mean stuff such as training and figuring out what to learn, what to master and what to have with you - the tools, intruments, equipment, right shoes, right clothes, supplies, water-bottles, maps, practice, books, friends, whatever (Syd_Brown and di2006 offer good suggestions). Training and other preparation takes time. Yet, what looks beyond one's reach today, can be easily accomplished tomorrow or a future day.
Listening to one's inner voice is wonderful first step to safety. Preparation is even stronger step to safety and to the fulfillment of our mysterious passions.
Yet, sometimes, danger or challenge has an irrestible pull. Just as Julian says, I can usually sense that a particular danger is beyond my comfort level. Unfortunately, this is not where the story ends, and that is not where I stop. I love to push the limits, cross what seems impossible, leap beyond the boundaries. May be, there are others here who feel the same draw. So, I will explain a bit more and share my perspective.
I agree with Julian that the first step is to listen to the "inner voice." There are things that are meant to be, and we sort of know instinctively that we want to take the chance, that we should take the chance.
And then, there are things where our "inner voice" whispers either a "no" or "I am not sure." Despite this answer, sometimes it seems to pull irrestibly, it seems one's call, one's aspiration, one's dream. Giving up easily is unnecessary. These things too can be achieved. Impulse does not help then. Preparation, objectivity and persistence does.
By preparation, I mean stuff such as training and figuring out what to learn, what to master and what to have with you - the tools, intruments, equipment, right shoes, right clothes, supplies, water-bottles, maps, practice, books, friends, whatever (Syd_Brown and di2006 offer good suggestions). Training and other preparation takes time. Yet, what looks beyond one's reach today, can be easily accomplished tomorrow or a future day.
Listening to one's inner voice is wonderful first step to safety. Preparation is even stronger step to safety and to the fulfillment of our mysterious passions.
The text you are quoting:
Julian has good suggestions. Listening to oneself, helps.
Yet, sometimes, danger or challenge has an irrestible pull. Just as Julian says, I can usually sense that a particular danger is beyond my comfort level. Unfortunately, this is not where the story ends, and that is not where I stop. I love to push the limits, cross what seems impossible, leap beyond the boundaries. May be, there are others here who feel the same draw. So, I will explain a bit more and share my perspective.
I agree with Julian that the first step is to listen to the "inner voice." There are things that are meant to be, and we sort of know instinctively that we want to take the chance, that we should take the chance.
And then, there are things where our "inner voice" whispers either a "no" or "I am not sure." Despite this answer, sometimes it seems to pull irrestibly, it seems one's call, one's aspiration, one's dream. Giving up easily is unnecessary. These things too can be achieved. Impulse does not help then. Preparation, objectivity and persistence does.
By preparation, I mean stuff such as training and figuring out what to learn, what to master and what to have with you - the tools, intruments, equipment, right shoes, right clothes, supplies, water-bottles, maps, practice, books, friends, whatever (Syd_Brown and di2006 offer good suggestions). Training and other preparation takes time. Yet, what looks beyond one's reach today, can be easily accomplished tomorrow or a future day.
Listening to one's inner voice is wonderful first step to safety. Preparation is even stronger step to safety and to the fulfillment of our mysterious passions.
colorado, Jun 27, 2007 @ 01:04
Yet, sometimes, danger or challenge has an irrestible pull. Just as Julian says, I can usually sense that a particular danger is beyond my comfort level. Unfortunately, this is not where the story ends, and that is not where I stop. I love to push the limits, cross what seems impossible, leap beyond the boundaries. May be, there are others here who feel the same draw. So, I will explain a bit more and share my perspective.
I agree with Julian that the first step is to listen to the "inner voice." There are things that are meant to be, and we sort of know instinctively that we want to take the chance, that we should take the chance.
And then, there are things where our "inner voice" whispers either a "no" or "I am not sure." Despite this answer, sometimes it seems to pull irrestibly, it seems one's call, one's aspiration, one's dream. Giving up easily is unnecessary. These things too can be achieved. Impulse does not help then. Preparation, objectivity and persistence does.
By preparation, I mean stuff such as training and figuring out what to learn, what to master and what to have with you - the tools, intruments, equipment, right shoes, right clothes, supplies, water-bottles, maps, practice, books, friends, whatever (Syd_Brown and di2006 offer good suggestions). Training and other preparation takes time. Yet, what looks beyond one's reach today, can be easily accomplished tomorrow or a future day.
Listening to one's inner voice is wonderful first step to safety. Preparation is even stronger step to safety and to the fulfillment of our mysterious passions.
colorado, Jun 27, 2007 @ 01:04
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 4
Jun 27, 2007 @ 01:08
I read all your posts and I really felt like this is all overreacting.
As Julian said, we like to join thrilling adrenaline activities and sometimes, well yes, we do get injured. My post only intended to give organizers an information about us, not to complain in any way. I have been canyonning before and I perfectly knew the risks of the activity. I actually felt overprotected by the instructors who were sort of our mothers during these descending hours.
We had fun, experienced great sensations and had the opportunity to do this under the best security available. Whenever you go skydiving, you do realize there is danger around (or you are particularly unaware...;-).
Doing this activity was not more dangerous than walking in running waters: it is slippery and when you fall, well, yes, rocks are hard...;-))))
Capricorn fell at the very beginning of the activity when the difficulty was very low. There was a sidepath available to get out of the descent at any time and he could have decided to stop, which he did not.
I love adrenaline activities and I have been practicing them since a very long time. I have had injuries, some light, some more serious and it never prevented me from doing them, but this cannyoning was not dangerous.
Overprotecting people is just like telling them they are too stupid to care for themselves...which I wouldn't like someone to tell me.
Anyway, we had a nice day and my only complaint would be that the group drank our discount money instead of giving it back to us!!! ;-)))
As Julian said, we like to join thrilling adrenaline activities and sometimes, well yes, we do get injured. My post only intended to give organizers an information about us, not to complain in any way. I have been canyonning before and I perfectly knew the risks of the activity. I actually felt overprotected by the instructors who were sort of our mothers during these descending hours.
We had fun, experienced great sensations and had the opportunity to do this under the best security available. Whenever you go skydiving, you do realize there is danger around (or you are particularly unaware...;-).
Doing this activity was not more dangerous than walking in running waters: it is slippery and when you fall, well, yes, rocks are hard...;-))))
Capricorn fell at the very beginning of the activity when the difficulty was very low. There was a sidepath available to get out of the descent at any time and he could have decided to stop, which he did not.
I love adrenaline activities and I have been practicing them since a very long time. I have had injuries, some light, some more serious and it never prevented me from doing them, but this cannyoning was not dangerous.
Overprotecting people is just like telling them they are too stupid to care for themselves...which I wouldn't like someone to tell me.
Anyway, we had a nice day and my only complaint would be that the group drank our discount money instead of giving it back to us!!! ;-)))
The text you are quoting:
I read all your posts and I really felt like this is all overreacting.
As Julian said, we like to join thrilling adrenaline activities and sometimes, well yes, we do get injured. My post only intended to give organizers an information about us, not to complain in any way. I have been canyonning before and I perfectly knew the risks of the activity. I actually felt overprotected by the instructors who were sort of our mothers during these descending hours.
We had fun, experienced great sensations and had the opportunity to do this under the best security available. Whenever you go skydiving, you do realize there is danger around (or you are particularly unaware...;-).
Doing this activity was not more dangerous than walking in running waters: it is slippery and when you fall, well, yes, rocks are hard...;-))))
Capricorn fell at the very beginning of the activity when the difficulty was very low. There was a sidepath available to get out of the descent at any time and he could have decided to stop, which he did not.
I love adrenaline activities and I have been practicing them since a very long time. I have had injuries, some light, some more serious and it never prevented me from doing them, but this cannyoning was not dangerous.
Overprotecting people is just like telling them they are too stupid to care for themselves...which I wouldn't like someone to tell me.
Anyway, we had a nice day and my only complaint would be that the group drank our discount money instead of giving it back to us!!! ;-)))
spellbinder, Jun 27, 2007 @ 01:08
As Julian said, we like to join thrilling adrenaline activities and sometimes, well yes, we do get injured. My post only intended to give organizers an information about us, not to complain in any way. I have been canyonning before and I perfectly knew the risks of the activity. I actually felt overprotected by the instructors who were sort of our mothers during these descending hours.
We had fun, experienced great sensations and had the opportunity to do this under the best security available. Whenever you go skydiving, you do realize there is danger around (or you are particularly unaware...;-).
Doing this activity was not more dangerous than walking in running waters: it is slippery and when you fall, well, yes, rocks are hard...;-))))
Capricorn fell at the very beginning of the activity when the difficulty was very low. There was a sidepath available to get out of the descent at any time and he could have decided to stop, which he did not.
I love adrenaline activities and I have been practicing them since a very long time. I have had injuries, some light, some more serious and it never prevented me from doing them, but this cannyoning was not dangerous.
Overprotecting people is just like telling them they are too stupid to care for themselves...which I wouldn't like someone to tell me.
Anyway, we had a nice day and my only complaint would be that the group drank our discount money instead of giving it back to us!!! ;-)))
spellbinder, Jun 27, 2007 @ 01:08
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 5
Jun 27, 2007 @ 12:14
and behold, they obeyed it for the thrill, according to Julian.
Maybe they should have calculated the cost of the drinks and read the labels on the bottles as well.
If they'd just asked Colorado before popping those corks...
Ah life!
Maybe they should have calculated the cost of the drinks and read the labels on the bottles as well.
If they'd just asked Colorado before popping those corks...
Ah life!
The text you are quoting:
and behold, they obeyed it for the thrill, according to Julian.
Maybe they should have calculated the cost of the drinks and read the labels on the bottles as well.
If they'd just asked Colorado before popping those corks...
Ah life!
MarmarK, Jun 27, 2007 @ 12:14
Maybe they should have calculated the cost of the drinks and read the labels on the bottles as well.
If they'd just asked Colorado before popping those corks...
Ah life!
MarmarK, Jun 27, 2007 @ 12:14
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 6
Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:09
And since I didnt have one :) , everybody found it a thrilling option indeed!!
You haven't forgotten that LoL stands for "lots of liquid", right?
You haven't forgotten that LoL stands for "lots of liquid", right?
The text you are quoting:
And since I didnt have one :) , everybody found it a thrilling option indeed!!
You haven't forgotten that LoL stands for "lots of liquid", right?
di2006, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:09
You haven't forgotten that LoL stands for "lots of liquid", right?
di2006, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:09
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 7
Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:15
to read your thoughts spellbinder. I agree with you that overprotective behavior can feel like an annoyance. That is not good.
From your two posts on this subject, it is clear that you are experienced and you would have jumped even if the danger was of a higher degree. :-)
I agree that anyone who signs up for an event is a willing participant. No willing participant can be a victim. I agree that is obvious. It is also obvious that anyone signing up knows that there are risks with any adventure sports. Now, lets move beyond the obvious.
It is not obvious as to how we can prevent accidents and be prepared.
As an event organizer, I would rather discuss, learn from others and figure out a way to prevent an accident than have to deal with a serious situation (coma or something worse) in the outdoors. I already got some great info from Syd_Brown's reply on the global insurance that includes airlift. There are other interesting info in his and the other posts.
I would also like to know from other event organizers if they feel that every person that joined them is reasonably well prepared? Or do they screen folks out depending on the risk levels? How can we do the right thing without seeming to be overprotective?
I hope folks here would contribute anything they know that has not been already said. Hopefully, some more good will come out of this discussion here (or in a private message, if someone prefers to send me their thoughts that way).
From your two posts on this subject, it is clear that you are experienced and you would have jumped even if the danger was of a higher degree. :-)
I agree that anyone who signs up for an event is a willing participant. No willing participant can be a victim. I agree that is obvious. It is also obvious that anyone signing up knows that there are risks with any adventure sports. Now, lets move beyond the obvious.
It is not obvious as to how we can prevent accidents and be prepared.
As an event organizer, I would rather discuss, learn from others and figure out a way to prevent an accident than have to deal with a serious situation (coma or something worse) in the outdoors. I already got some great info from Syd_Brown's reply on the global insurance that includes airlift. There are other interesting info in his and the other posts.
I would also like to know from other event organizers if they feel that every person that joined them is reasonably well prepared? Or do they screen folks out depending on the risk levels? How can we do the right thing without seeming to be overprotective?
I hope folks here would contribute anything they know that has not been already said. Hopefully, some more good will come out of this discussion here (or in a private message, if someone prefers to send me their thoughts that way).
The text you are quoting:
to read your thoughts spellbinder. I agree with you that overprotective behavior can feel like an annoyance. That is not good.
From your two posts on this subject, it is clear that you are experienced and you would have jumped even if the danger was of a higher degree. :-)
I agree that anyone who signs up for an event is a willing participant. No willing participant can be a victim. I agree that is obvious. It is also obvious that anyone signing up knows that there are risks with any adventure sports. Now, lets move beyond the obvious.
It is not obvious as to how we can prevent accidents and be prepared.
As an event organizer, I would rather discuss, learn from others and figure out a way to prevent an accident than have to deal with a serious situation (coma or something worse) in the outdoors. I already got some great info from Syd_Brown's reply on the global insurance that includes airlift. There are other interesting info in his and the other posts.
I would also like to know from other event organizers if they feel that every person that joined them is reasonably well prepared? Or do they screen folks out depending on the risk levels? How can we do the right thing without seeming to be overprotective?
I hope folks here would contribute anything they know that has not been already said. Hopefully, some more good will come out of this discussion here (or in a private message, if someone prefers to send me their thoughts that way).
colorado, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:15
From your two posts on this subject, it is clear that you are experienced and you would have jumped even if the danger was of a higher degree. :-)
I agree that anyone who signs up for an event is a willing participant. No willing participant can be a victim. I agree that is obvious. It is also obvious that anyone signing up knows that there are risks with any adventure sports. Now, lets move beyond the obvious.
It is not obvious as to how we can prevent accidents and be prepared.
As an event organizer, I would rather discuss, learn from others and figure out a way to prevent an accident than have to deal with a serious situation (coma or something worse) in the outdoors. I already got some great info from Syd_Brown's reply on the global insurance that includes airlift. There are other interesting info in his and the other posts.
I would also like to know from other event organizers if they feel that every person that joined them is reasonably well prepared? Or do they screen folks out depending on the risk levels? How can we do the right thing without seeming to be overprotective?
I hope folks here would contribute anything they know that has not been already said. Hopefully, some more good will come out of this discussion here (or in a private message, if someone prefers to send me their thoughts that way).
colorado, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:15
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 8
Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:38
they had asked
Colorado would hath spoken
Friends, I don't know
Go to the Oracle
In the Kingdom of Vaud
She is behind the dragons
the mysterious beasts
If you softly murmur
the phrase marmar-k-issss
She would tell you
the answer thee seeks
The text you are quoting:
they had asked
Colorado would hath spoken
Friends, I don't know
Go to the Oracle
In the Kingdom of Vaud
She is behind the dragons
the mysterious beasts
If you softly murmur
the phrase marmar-k-issss
She would tell you
the answer thee seeks
colorado, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:38
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 9
Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:43
None of the comments here are personal and do not aim to make anybody feel stupid or smart. Yes, these comments are triggered by a posting, a discussion, or activity but the aim here is to bring our observations, our experiences and our interpretations of such experiences. We can only make a difference in this community of over 10,000 members when we share what we know, and are willing to to learn something we dont know. These are my expectations and hope everybody feels the same way!
The text you are quoting:
None of the comments here are personal and do not aim to make anybody feel stupid or smart. Yes, these comments are triggered by a posting, a discussion, or activity but the aim here is to bring our observations, our experiences and our interpretations of such experiences. We can only make a difference in this community of over 10,000 members when we share what we know, and are willing to to learn something we dont know. These are my expectations and hope everybody feels the same way!
di2006, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:43
di2006, Jun 27, 2007 @ 13:43
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Re: ...enjoy dangerous sports, prevent accidents
Post 10
Jun 29, 2007 @ 16:01
Just wearing the good protection...... and assume your responsabilities!
I mean that nobody forces me to practise climbing, motorbiking, moutainbiking, horse riding or flying...and not to behave in victim
I mean that nobody forces me to practise climbing, motorbiking, moutainbiking, horse riding or flying...and not to behave in victim
The text you are quoting:
Just wearing the good protection...... and assume your responsabilities!
I mean that nobody forces me to practise climbing, motorbiking, moutainbiking, horse riding or flying...and not to behave in victim
versace, Jun 29, 2007 @ 16:01
I mean that nobody forces me to practise climbing, motorbiking, moutainbiking, horse riding or flying...and not to behave in victim
versace, Jun 29, 2007 @ 16:01
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