June, 2003
Mountain Adventure Seminars has created a monthly newsletter for the greater MAS community. Our mission is to provide information that is both informative and enjoyable. Please note that your email address will never be sold or shared. If you would prefer not to receive this then please go to the bottom of this email to unsubscribe.
Table of Contents

 


MAS Moments
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• Spring has Sprung in the Sierra! The April storms have given way to beautiful weather, swift running streams, and emerging wildflowers. Ebbett's Pass above Bear Valley has opened and a number of people are driving, cycling, and backcountry skiing along the upper stretches of Highway 4. In addition, the rock climbing areas in and around Bear Valley are opening up and some of the locals have already put up some new climbing routes.
MAS / BaseCamp Special
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All Rockcraft Seminar registrations received before June 15, 2003 will receive a 10% credit towards any future MAS or BaseCamp bookings. For those of you already registered in a Rockcraft Seminar a credit has already been issue to your MAS records. All credits are valid through December 31, 2003.
MAS Guide Tip #3
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MAS Safety Check
Excited about going rock climbing? Great, but take a moment before you leave the ground and perform a safety check. At MAS we promote a "3-Point Safety Check & Are You Using Your Head?". This procedure requires both the climber and belayer* to inspect each other on the critical parts of their safety system before each climb. These critical points are the harness, carabiner, rope, and your head.

Harnesses should be in good working order and assembled according to manufacturer instructions. Important features are: 1) does the harness fit correctly; and 2) are the hip and leg loop buckles doubled back (note – some harnesses are being built with buckles pre-doubled back). When in doubt ask.

Carabiners used for belaying should be locking (preferred) or two "opposite & opposed". Always check that a carabiner is locked. If using two opposite & opposed, the carabiner gates should create an "X" when both are opened. If the belayers harness is equipped with a belay loop, this is where the locking carabiner should be attached.

Ropes are the how the climber and belayer are connected in the safety system. The climber should be tied into the rope through both the hip and leg loop with a tightened figure-eight follow through, with at least six inches of tail. On the belayers side, the rope should be properly loaded through the belay device and locking carabiner.

Your Head is the most important piece of gear – so why not where a helmet. It only takes a small object from a short distance to cause damage. Also evaluate the mental state of you and your partner. Are you rushed, dehydrated, or distracted. Best to identify these issues beforehand, then act accordingly.
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* belayer - is the person, which manages the rope and holds the climber in case they fall, when the climber needs a rest and when the climber is lowered back down to the ground.