On January 7, while descending the South Side Route, at about 9,700 feet, Edward Trompke, 62, fell and slid about 200 feet, injuring his shoulder. His son, climbing with him, alerted authorities with a 911 call, saying the fall was caused by a loose crampon.

Teams from Portland Mountain Rescue and American Medical Response lowered the subject in a litter to the ski area, where Timberline professional patrollers transported the climber to an awaiting ambulance.

ANALYSIS

For crampons to be safe and effective, they must be properly sized and firmly fastened to the climbing boot, and straps and clothing must be tightened or secured so they can’t cause the climber to trip and fall. After crampons are donned, kicking them against hard snow and rapping the sides with an ice axe can help determine if they are securely attached. (Source: Jeff Scheetz, Portland Mountain Rescue.)