Climbing Wall - Common Questions
Who Can Climb the Wall?
People of practically any age can climb the wall as long as all of the required safety procedures are followed. An adult must accompany children under the age of 14, at all times, unless the child is enrolled in a class or lesson.
What about my children using the wall?
Children may use the wall but must, as do adults, be belayed by a person on the approved Belay list. The wall monitor will make judgments on a case-by-case basis, about the suitability of children passing the Belay test and belaying. All decisions made by the wall monitor are final.
What are the safety procedures I need to know before I am able to use the Wall?
You must be able to successfully pass a belay test. A Belay test requires you to properly fit and buckle your harness, tie your knot and then belay and lower your climbing partner. After performing this test with 0% error you will be placed on the “Approved to Belay” list. Persons not on this list will not be permitted to belay. There is no charge for this test.
What if I cannot pass the Belay test?
If you cannot pass the Belay test you cannot belay. You may sometimes be allowed to climb, at the discretion of the wall monitor, but someone in your party, who is on the Belay list, must belay you.
What if I do not know how to climb or belay?
You must take a lesson to learn how to belay before you may use the Wall. Climbing will be included in the lesson, but is not required for you to be a belayer.
How do I get a lesson and can I have one now?
Lessons are taught by qualified instructors of the International Mountain Climbing School. Lessons are taught during low usage hours or “Closed for open climbing” hours to allow proper instruction with a minimum of distractions. They are booked through the Front Desk and should be made in advance, though every reasonable effort will be made to arrange one that will fit your schedule.
How much do lessons cost?
The Front Desk Person can provide you with a flyer listing the different clinics, options and prices that are offered. Hours and prices are subject to change at any time.
What if I need Climbing equipment?
Climbing equipment, provided by the International Mountain Climbing School is available to rent at the wall. You may purchase a ticket to rent equipment at the front desk of the Cranmore Family Fitness Center.
What is the role of the Wall Monitor?
The wall monitor is not an instructor when he or she is on Monitor duty. His/Her job is to ensure the safety of all Wall users, oversee all Wall operations and to make sure all Wall safety procedures are followed.