LOSS OF CONTROL—RAPPEL, NO HARD HAT

Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake State Park

On August 2, 1988, Alma Guerro (IS) received a puncture wound to the back of her head when she swung unintentionally on a rappel from East Bluff. (Source: Devil’s Lake State Park)

Analysis

The victim was wearing a helmet, but it was not firmly attached, and the injured area would normally have been covered. A helmet with no chin strap attached is no helmet at all, unless you’re real lucky. (Source: J. Williamson)