SLIP ON SNOW, INADEQUATE EQUIPMENT, CLIMBING UNROPED, INEXPERIENCE

Washington, Chair Peak

On August 6, 1984, Michael Sherman (17) and Nathaniel Burgess (17) were attempting an ascent of Chair Peak by the standard route. About 1300, Sherman slipped on a snow slope at the 1900 meter level, slid about ten meters and dropped into a hole in the snow. Burgess climbed down to him and found him conscious but unable to walk. Burgess hiked out for help. Sherman was evacuated by ground and air to base camp, and transported by his father to a medical facility. All injuries proved to be superficial. (Source: Bergtrage, Seattle Mountain Rescue Council, 84- 11, September 1984)

Analysis

The two climbers had little experience, no training, and minimal borrowed equipment. (Source: Bergtrage, Seattle Mountain Rescue Council, 84-11, September 1984)