FALL ON ICE, UNROPED

British Columbia, Haffner Creek Canyon

February 15, I.T. was solo climbing a mixed route in Haffner Creek Canyon to set up a top rope for friends. He was approximately twenty feet up when he slipped and fell to the ground landing at an awkward angle on his left ankle. Two ACMG guides that were working close by and witnessed the accident radioed Kootenay Park wardens to initiate a rescue response. I.T. was transported via heli-sling to the Haffner Creek trailhead. He was then evacuated by helicopter to the hospital in Banff. I.T. had fractured his ankle in three places.

Analysis

Solo climbing is unforgiving. Slips and even short falls while wearing crampons can lead to serious injuries. (Source: Percy Woods, Kootenay National Park Warden Service)