On August 30, a party of two was climbing Heart Line, a very long, moderate (5.9 A0) rock route in the Bow Valley. As the second climber (male, 30s) was finishing pitch four, a large boulder rolled down the climb and struck the climber in the shin, causing an open lower leg fracture. The belayer was able to lower the second to the lower belay station and then descend to the lower stance. The pair phoned 911 and a rescue was initiated. Rescuers were able to heli-sling the patient directly from the climb.

ANALYSIS

These experienced climbers were unlucky to be in the wrong location when the boulder dislodged. It is important to note they were well prepared for emergencies. They had a phone and were able to call out for help. As well, they had the skills to partially self-rescue to the lower station, thus making the ensuing rescue much easier. Both climbers had helmets and were generally well equipped. (Source: Kananaskis Country Incident Report.)