FALL ON ROCK, PROTECTION PULLED OUT

Colorado, Eldorado Canyon State Park, Kloof

On May 22, the victim (29) was leading a climb on the route called Kloof on the west ridge. He was about 30 feet off the ground when he was unable to complete a move. He fell, pulling out his only piece of protection.

Analysis

Because of the angle of the rock face, the protection would not hold properly. Thought needs to be given to the angle of the rock in relationship to the angle if one was to fall and the force that the fall would place on the protection. (Source: J. W. Wilder, Park Ranger)