Ziplines are a super fun activity that are wildly popular with kids. But as a parent, the thought of your child flying through the open air from what’s essentially a piece of rope isn’t so great. So whether you have a party coming up or your kids are begging you to go to an adventure park, here’s everything you need to know about ziplines and how safe they are. Spoiler alert: they are safe to use!
What is Ziplining?
Before we get into how safe ziplines are, let’s understand what exactly a zipline is. Ziplining is an outdoors activity where you can ride a steel cable between two points. It’s a common activity in places like Costa Rica where people can use ziplines to explore the natural environment from above. They’ve also become a big part of adventure parks up and down the country, forming parts of high ropes courses.
Safety Precautions on Ziplines
Ziplines are actually very safe for riders of all ages to use. This is thanks to the extensive safety protocols, equipment, and training that goes into the whole experience of ziplining and getting the top rope climbing experience. Let’s look at some of them now.
Safety Equipment
Ziplining is synonymous with being strapped and clipped to a number of different safety equipment so that there’s no way you can fall off the zipline as you fly across it.
Smart Belay Systems
A smart belay system ensures that a rider can’t fall off the zipline or disengage themselves from the zipline, and can be used by riders of all ages. They’re used with other carabiners and hooks to secure a rider to their harness.
Harnesses
Harnesses are a vital part of any zipline safety system, by attaching riders to the main frame of the climbing or zipline structure. They provide safety by making it possible for riders to go handsfree without falling from the zipline or climbing frame they’re on.
Gloves and Helmets
Whilst riders are safe on ziplines thanks to harnesses, carabiners and other safety measures, it’s still important for riders to wear protective gear like gloves and helmets when they’re ziplining.
Staff Training
At adventure parks or ziplining venues, you have added peace of mind knowing that all staff receive specialized training in ziplining safety procedures and protocols. This means that they are qualified to supervise and prepare riders for ziplines in a safe and secure environment. Their expert knowledge about ziplines and experience is what will ensure that your, or your family’s, experience on a zipline will be a safe one!
Safety Procedures
Venues that offer ziplining experiences also have extensive safety protocols in place which further safeguard guests and avoid any accidents happening. These include:
- COVID-19 protocols in terms of hygiene
- Limitations on the number of guests allowed in the zipline area
- One rider is allowed on the zipline at a time
- Safety checks at each step of the zipline process
- Supervision in all areas
After learning about ziplines, hopefully you feel more comfortable with the thought of your kids getting on the zipline. It’s a super fun activity that can be enjoyed by all – so there’s no reason you shouldn’t let them take the leap!