What is debraying?

Debraying is a technique used in canyoning and caving when descending. It involves lowering yourself in a controlled manner using a descent device that can be released in an emergency or to allow someone else to descend without physical effort. Debraying allows the descending function to be taken over by someone else, so that that person can safely lower you if, for example, you get stuck or have no more strength.

Application of debraying

Debraying is useful in situations such as:

  • Rescue: If someone is stuck or injured, another person can take over the descent process.
  • Guided Descent: It allows controlled and guided descent of beginners or children, with someone at the top maintaining control.
  • Safety in Difficult Sections: In complex, slippery or flowing water sections, an attendant can exercise additional control for a safe descent. Equipment you use for debraying

For debraying, you need special equipment that allows for a controlled and safe descent:

  1. Descenders (such as Petzl I'D, PetzlRig): These descenders have a brake or stop function that allows an attendant to stop or resume the descent at any time.
  2. Rope brakes: A simple rope brake can be added to the rope below the descender, so that the rope remains locked unless it is pulled. This can be especially useful if you want to stop the descent without the device being used.
  3. Carabiners and Pulleys: Carabiners are used to set up the system and anchor it securely to a belay point. Pulleys can also be used in more complex rescue systems to reduce the effort required of the attendant.
  4. Rope management aids (such as prusik ropes or autoblocs): A prusik or autobloc can be used as an additional backup to automatically block the rope if the descender lets go for any reason.
  5. Ropes suitable for canyoning and caving: Canyoning and caving ropes are static and do not stretch, which is important for controlled descents and rescue situations.

Important Considerations

  • Training: Debraying requires good technique and experience, especially in rescue situations. Make sure everyone in the group is familiar with the system.
  • Situation: Determine whether debraying is necessary based on the descender’s experience, weather conditions, and the difficulty of the descent.

By using the right equipment and mastering the technique, debraying can provide a safe and controlled descent.

Overview Knowledge base Technical terms for canyoning and caving (caving): Go back

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