Zip line tours are quickly becoming one of the most popular types of tours for adventurous tourists. However, if you are considering going on a zip tour yourself, you should be sure to understand the steps you need to take to be safe on a zip line. Here are five essential safety tips that every zip line rider should know.
Consult With A Doctor First
Ziplining is an activity that requires a fair amount of physical fitness to do safely. Before you go on your first zip tour, you should always consult with a doctor to make sure that you do not have any health conditions that would cause a risk while you were ziplining.
Some examples of medical problems that could pose a risk if you choose to start ziplining are high blood pressure, seizures, anxiety, and heart problems. You should also make sure you meet the age and weight requirements of the company you will be zip touring with.
Ask How Often The Zip Line Is Inspected
As a zip line is under high tension every time it is used, you should make sure that the company you are touring with inspects the line regularly for defects. According to James Borishade, Executive Director for the Association for Challenge Course Technology, zip lines should be checked daily, thoroughly inspected monthly, and inspected annually by a third party. Your zip tour guide should be well aware of how often the zip line is inspected, and you should be sure that these inspection requirements have been met for any zip line that you are about to ride.
Always Let A Guide Clip Your Harness To The Cable
While basic zip lines for low-height applications may only have one clip, many professional-grade zip lines have two or more for added safety. Professional zip lines are more complex, and your zip line tour guide will have much more experience with the equipment than anyone else on the tour. For your own safety, it is a good idea to always let the tour guide clip your harness to the zip line. This ensures that the equipment is set up properly to minimize the risk of injury for the riders.
Be Sure To Secure Your Gear
Any gear that is hanging loose poses a risk of injury, as it could possibly become tangled between your harness and the zip line as your ride. Additionally, unsecured gear is likely to be lost when you are flying down the line at high-speed, especially if it is your first time riding on a zip line.
Before you ride the zip line, you should make sure that all bags are firmly strapped against your body. Don't wear loose or open-toed shoes if you want them to make it to the end of the line with you. If you are using a camera, it should be attached to your hand with a hand-strap that allows you to use the camera with one hand while keeping the other free to hang on and brake. For your comfort, it is a good idea to store keys and sharp objects in your bags instead of in your pocket, where the harness could rub against them.
Learn Proper Zip Line Posture
Your posture on the zip line will have a great effect on your amount of control. Your legs should be crossed at the ankles, and your knees bent upward toward your chest to maintain balance. Lean your head slightly away from the zip line to keep your helmet from rubbing against the line. Above all, your hands should always be behind the pulley, as holding the line in front of the pulley can cause injury.
Zip line tours can be one of the most exhilarating ways to experience beautiful scenery while satisfying your need for adventure. Keep these tips in mind so that your zip line tour is as safe and enjoyable as possible. For more information, contact a company like Shallotte River Swamp Park.
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