Stuck Ropes
Risk decision flowchart to deal with stuck ropes
This a “Decision Flowchart” for ascending stuck ropes. At the core of this problem is making sure that the secure rope, the one it was used for rappelling, does not go out of reach. So, it is very important to test the recovery pull during the first five feet of the pull. If there is any indication of an incoming difficult pull....Stop, and consider ascending to fix the issue. This chart reflects the use of a SRT (Single Rope Technique) blocked system. Do not ascend Transient Rigging (ghosting) systems, or DRT out of reach systems.
Canyoneering
One aspect that separates canyoneering from climbing and caving is that at the heart of canyoneering lies Successful Rope Retrieval after every rappel. If we get our rappelling rope stuck, we can not continue down canyon. Now we are in big trouble, and if not prepared for this problem, we will need external rescue: SAR
Causes
Stuck ropes happen from time to time. These are some common causes of stuck rope:
Far back low anchors with lots of friction during the rope recovery pull
Getting the ropes twisted and crossed during rappel. If you get your pull side pressing down on the rappel side, or multiple twist causing friction, the ropes get stuck.
Pulling rope hastily causing the tail of the rope to whip and wrap around the anchor.
Rope ends with stiff and long caps
Blocks (knots or hardware) getting stuck on constrictions during the pull
Hasty pull
Long stiff rope end cap getting stuck
Avoidance
Mitigate the risk of stuck ropes by
Establishing good anchor location with a clean-line-of-sight to a place at the bottom where you can execute a clean pull.
Do not throw the pull side down prematurely. Last person bring it down.
Keep your rappel side and pull side separated by proper rigging procedure and last-person rope bag holstering good practices.
Evaluate constriction risks and decide if removing blocks is a good call.
Dealing with stuck ropes
Deal with stuck topes by following the top Flow Chart. Be sure to bring with you:
Ascending system to ascend long pitches to fix stuck ropes
A reserve ropes long enough to finish the canyon in case you can not recover your stuck rope.
Happy canyoneering and be safe!