Club Soloing and Helmet Policies.
LUUMC accepts that soloing is a legitimate climbing activity, and is enjoyable, particularly at small gritstone outcrops. It must be stressed that soloing is extremely serious, and should only be undertaken by experienced climbers well within their limits. It hardly needs to be said that the consequences of a mistake can be extremely serious, and as a result we do not encourage club members to solo. Members who wish to solo on a club trip should think very seriously of who can see them, and who might be encouraged to get out of their depth as a result. Soloing is a personal activity, and while we do not wish to impinge on people's climbing, we accept no responsibility for any injury which results. You have been warned, if in doubt, don't.
The wearing of helmets is a personal choice-we do not insist on helmet wearing. It should be a personal choice which is informed however, if you do not know, ask one of the more experienced members. As a general rule, helmets should be seen as essential when alpine climbing, winter climbing, at any loose venues (eg: many limestone crags) and most mountain venues in the UK. Solid gritstone outcrops or sport climbing have less chance of falling objects hitting your head, but there have been occasions of helmets saving lives in these circumstances too. You should also consider, particularly on club trips, that other people are a liability, and you can never rely on other people to not drop things on your head. Whether you wear a helmet is your own responsibility, but LUUMC recommends the wearing of helmets, and very strongly recommends helmets in the situations listed above. Helmets may not look cool, but being dead is definately not cool. Think, then make your choice. 'Nuff said.
LUUMC is not a guiding service-we rely on members to pass on experience in an informal way. While the committee do ensure good practice, it cannot be stressed enough that every member should be taking responsibility for themselves. LUUMC recognises that climbing and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions. If you cannot accept that risk then climbing is not for you, and you might be interested in this site: http://www.etwa.org/
If you would like to see the LUUMC risk assessments or a list of competent people who are able to teach beginners please go to the ARC in the union and ask to speak to Geoff, who holds a copy of both. I (Sam) have copies of various BMC information booklets, if you'd like to borrow them, let me know. They cover a wide range of subjects.
This is going to be on the home page until it finds a more permanent place.
Safe and happy climbing over easter!!
LUUMC xxx
