Since it is not possible to describe every maneuver and knot in detail in the following explanation, this article is intended for leaders who already have some basic knowledge of rope techniques.
This article is from a Forum magazine issue.
Stacking Crates
Every beginning is easy
For an unusual attraction like stacking crates, it doesn’t really take much:
You can probably get a truckload of crates for free from your local beverage store. But make sure to agree in advance on what you’ll have to pay for any damaged crates. It’s almost inevitable that a few crates will break during this activity. You might already have ropes in your own equipment stash, and you’ll surely be able to find a few harnesses without too much trouble. Make sure you also have harnesses for children, if they’re part of your target audience. By the way, the harnesses must be full-body harnesses. Hip-only harnesses are strictly prohibited, and using them in combination with a chest strap is only recommended under certain conditions. The risk of falling out is too great.
Where can we get a crane?
When it comes to the most important component, however, things get a bit trickier. Not everyone has a crane sitting in their garage. But even that isn’t impossible. Why not ask around among your relatives and friends? Maybe someone in your community works for a construction company or a carpentry/joinery shop. You’re sure to find someone there who’s willing to lend you their crane. You can offer to promote their business—that usually works.
Preparation is key
To stack the crates, you’ll need a level surface (you may need to use a large wooden board to help level it out). You’ll also need to make sure there’s enough clear space around the stacking area so that if the tower falls over, it won’t land on anyone’s head. It’s a good idea to cordon off a large area around the “construction site.” Before extending the crane, remember to attach the ropes to the crane hook. Skilled stackers can sometimes manage 25–30 crates. So make sure the crane hook is extended high enough. At least two supervisors are required to run this activity. One secures the stacker, while the other is responsible for supplying the crates. It’s best to use an additional rope to pull the crates upward.
Caution: Responsibility!
When roping up the stackers, you must proceed with extreme care, because you bear the responsibility if something goes wrong. Since there are two of you anyway, check each other’s knots and carabiners (be sure to use screw-lock or twist-lock carabiners). The best way to do this is to put on the harnesses “backwards,” so that the rope attaches to your back. Belaying the climber is now done the same way as when climbing: always keep the rope tight!
Equipment List
- Crane or other anchor point for the ropes at a height of about 10 m
- Rope slings (30–40 pieces, so you have a few spares)
- At least 2 ropes, approx. 30–50 m (climbing or static ropes)
- Carabiners
- A few carabiners
- Base plate (if necessary)
- Barrier material
- Webbing slings
Well then, have fun stacking them up!
References
- Content and image: Forum Kind, Issue 01/06, page 24. Activity: Stacking crates.
© Copyright www.forum-kind.ch - Author: Urs Bänninger
