The zip lining course I went to allows children as young as 8 years old onto the course. In fact, there are many kid-friendly zip line courses. So, if you're looking for a fun activity to do with your kids this summer, consider zip lining!
The popularity of zip lining has grown tremendously over the past 20 years. Here are some zip lining tips to consider before strapping on the harness:
1. Make sure the operator of the zip line tour is legit
Before you decide to zip into the great beyond, make a phone call or two. Ask questions. Currently, there are no national standards for zip line construction and operation; however, many states have them, and any legitimate operator should also adhere to the standards set by the Association for Challenge Course Technology or the Professional Ropes Course Association. So ask about that. Ask how often the course is inspected, and by whom. Ask about the company's safety record. Ask about its insurance. Ask about how the people there will keep you safe.
2. Look around
Once you get there, does the place look legit? Are the operators who will help you in your adventure professional? Is a safety demonstration included? (If not... that's a big red flag!) Look at the equipment provided, including carabiners, ropes, harnesses and helmets. Are they well maintained? Look at the course itself. Do the lines look free from wear and tear? How about the platforms? Do they look sturdy? Do they have guard rails?
3. Listen... Carefully!
No one will strap you in and push you off without addressing safety. So don't act like you do when the flight attendant goes into the pre-flight routine. It's important to listen intently to these safety briefings. And, again, ask questions.
4. Watch your step on the course
Once on the course, make sure you're strapped onto a safety line at all times, not just while you're zipping through the trees. (Some places require that you have two safety lines hooked on) Many accidents occur by a simple step off a platform. So if you're on the course (which often means many feet off the ground), you should be safely attached to a line that will catch you if you fall. Also, watch out for other adventurers and the guides. Don't get in their way.
5. Know your limits
Most zip lines have, as you might imagine, a weight limit. But being big isn't the only thing that should make you think twice before zipping along. If you're pregnant, if you have a heart condition, if you have height-related phobias, if you think the stress just might be too uncomfortable -- take a pass.
6. Wear a helmet
Just do it. And, ditch the flip-flops. Closed-toe shoes only.
Zip lining on a legit course with trained professionals who have safety as their primary focus will give you the most positive experience. Again, there are many kid-friendly courses. So, consider zip lining as a fun, adventurous family activity for this summer!
From Him, Through Him, For Him (Romans 11:36),
Paul J. Staso
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Visit my YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/user/pacetrek
Click on any of the links below to see some of my adventure photos:
- United States in 2006 (3,260 miles solo in 108 days at age 41)
- Montana in 2008 (620 miles solo in 20 days at age 43)
- Alaska in 2009 (500 miles solo in 18 days at age 44)
- Germany in 2010 (500 miles solo in 21 days at age 45)
- The Mojave Desert in 2011 (506 miles solo in 17 days at age 46)
- Various Photos From Mileposts Gone By
- Students Worldwide Who Ran With Me Virtually
- Roadside Sights From My Running Adventures
- Some Cycling Moments From The Past
