Roger: 0:02

Talking Trees with Lily and Jad. Welcome to Talking Trees. In today's episode, we're diving into key insights from Technical Guide, tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue. Today, we'll explore essential equipment for tree access and rescue, from carabiners and harnesses to ropes, pulleys and knots, with a focus on safety and risk reduction. Let's get started.

Jad: 0:30

Hey everyone and welcome back for another deep dive. Yep, this time we're going to get all technical on you.

Roger: 0:35

Yeah.

Jad: 0:35

Getting you prepped for safer and more efficient climb. We're cracking open a technical guide here. Okay, all about tree climbing equipment Awesome, with a heavy focus on best practices and safety. Okay, all about tree climbing equipment Awesome, with a heavy focus on best practices and safety. Yeah, this stuff is like gold for any climber.

Lilly: 0:50

Yeah, as pros, you probably think you know your gear inside and out.

Jad: 0:54

Right.

Lilly: 0:54

But this guide, it goes deep. It's not just like the names.

Jad: 0:58

Right.

Lilly: 0:58

It's understanding how each piece like works together.

Jad: 1:02

Like it's all part of a system, right?

Lilly: 1:04

Exactly as a system, yeah.

Jad: 1:06

So picture this, you're geared up.

Lilly: 1:09

Okay.

Jad: 1:09

About to tackle this Like massive oak. All right, what's the first thing this guide emphasizes?

Lilly: 1:17

Owning your gear.

Jad: 1:18

Owning your gear.

Lilly: 1:18

Correct.

Jad: 1:19

And get this.

Lilly: 1:20

Those user manuals.

Jad: 1:22

Those often ignored user manuals.

Lilly: 1:24

Yeah, When's the last time you opened one of those?

Jad: 1:26

Oh tell me about it. All right, I know I just toss them.

Lilly: 1:28

It's easy, just chuck them.

Jad: 1:29

Yeah, yeah.

Lilly: 1:30

But the manufacturers pack those manuals with critical info.

Jad: 1:35

To the cheat codes right.

Lilly: 1:36

Exactly.

Jad: 1:37

Yeah.

Lilly: 1:37

To your equipment.

Jad: 1:38

They tell you how to get the most out of it and, more importantly, how to stay safe.

Lilly: 1:42

That's the key. Yeah, okay, so gears checked, got it Manual skimmed.

Jad: 1:47

Okay.

Lilly: 1:47

We're up in the tree All right. Ready to work.

Jad: 1:49

Yeah, what's next?

Lilly: 1:51

This guide jumps right into friction pitches and mechanical devices. Okay, those are your controls for ascent and descent.

Jad: 1:59

Right.

Lilly: 1:59

And for safety. Oh yeah, especially during a rescue, those babies need to be self-locking.

Jad: 2:05

Makes perfect sense.

Lilly: 2:06

Yeah.

Jad: 2:07

Wouldn't want to be fiddling with a device that's not going to lock when you need to get down quickly.

Lilly: 2:13

Exactly, rope material is really important and choosing the right rope for each climb. We're talking abrasion resistance for those rough barks and temperature resistance for those extreme weather days.

Jad: 2:26

It makes a big difference.

Lilly: 2:27

It does yeah.

Jad: 2:28

You wouldn't use a bungee cord.

Lilly: 2:29

You wouldn't use a bungee cord.

Jad: 2:30

Kind of rock.

Lilly: 2:30

Yeah, no, no Bad idea.

Jad: 2:32

Same idea here. Yeah, wrong rope.

Lilly: 2:34

Disaster.

Jad: 2:35

Disaster. Yeah, okay, point taken, let's switch gears a bit, okay.

Lilly: 2:45

Talk about mechanical adjusters.

Jad: 2:45

I know these help manage rope slack. They do Especially when using a lanyard. Yep, but it's pretty crazy how different lanyard setups can actually change how an adjuster works.

Lilly: 2:56

It's all in the details, right. Whether you're running a doubled or single leg lanyard, it impacts your adjuster.

Jad: 3:04

Okay.

Lilly: 3:05

And this guide even talks about adding friction. Oh, it impacts your adjuster. Okay, and this guide even talks about adding friction. Oh wow, in some setups Okay. For better group. Think of it like giving your adjuster that extra oomph lock securely.

Jad: 3:15

And speaking of safety mechanisms.

Lilly: 3:17

Oh, okay.

Jad: 3:18

This guide also talks about the cutaway feature.

Lilly: 3:20

Yeah.

Jad: 3:21

On reinforced lanyards.

Lilly: 3:22

That's your emergency exit.

Jad: 3:24

Oh, okay.

Lilly: 3:25

You know if you're ever in a bind.

Jad: 3:26

Right.

Lilly: 3:26

Think entanglement.

Jad: 3:28

Oh yeah.

Lilly: 3:28

Or any other like hairy situation where you need to ditch your lanyard fast.

Jad: 3:33

Okay, now onto connectors.

Lilly: 3:35

Okay.

Jad: 3:35

The unsung heroes of our climbing system.

Lilly: 3:38

They are.

Jad: 3:38

We've got two main types.

Lilly: 3:40

Okay.

Jad: 3:40

Open connectors All right, like our trusty carabiners, right. And closed connectors yes, like anchor rings. I like to think of carabiners as the key chain.

Lilly: 3:49

It's just like key chains. Yeah, carabiners come in all shapes and sizes.

Jad: 3:53

Right.

Lilly: 3:53

This guide breaks down ovals HMS. D shape and even offset D shapes.

Jad: 4:00

Offset D Right.

Lilly: 4:01

Each shape has its own strength and ideal uses.

Jad: 4:05

So it's not just grabbing any old carabiner from your gear bag. There's a science to this.

Lilly: 4:10

Think about a D-shaped carabiner.

Jad: 4:12

Okay.

Lilly: 4:12

It's designed to handle loads along its spine. That's the strongest part.

Jad: 4:19

Right.

Lilly: 4:19

Load it sideways. You're compromising.

Jad: 4:21

Oh, interesting.

Lilly: 4:22

So if you're setting up a redirect, you're reaching for that HMS for its smooth rope, glide All right.

Jad: 4:30

So, speaking of loading, this guide stresses loading carabiners close to their major axis for maximum strength.

Lilly: 4:39

So the further away you get from that strong point, the weaker it gets.

Jad: 4:44

It's like physics class up in the tree. Up in the tree, yeah.

Lilly: 4:47

Yeah, it is a little physics lesson, isn't it?

Jad: 4:49

It is, but these details can make a big difference.

Lilly: 4:52

Oh, for sure.

Jad: 4:52

In your safety.

Lilly: 4:54

Okay, let's talk about the real MVP.

Jad: 4:56

Okay, the rope, the rope.

Lilly: 4:59

This guide goes deep on choosing the right rope, considering everything. What?

Jad: 5:04

it's made of. Yeah, all that stuff, exactly Okay, and for tree work.

Lilly: 5:08

Yeah.

Jad: 5:09

The recommendation is clear.

Lilly: 5:12

What is it?

Jad: 5:13

Low stretch braided ropes.

Lilly: 5:16

Okay.

Jad: 5:16

They offer the best control and safety up in the canopy.

Lilly: 5:20

Up in the canopy.

Jad: 5:21

Yeah, so important.

Lilly: 5:22

Yeah.

Jad: 5:23

But picking the right type is only half the battle, right?

Lilly: 5:26

It is. It is what about rope length. Yeah.

Jad: 5:29

This guide seems pretty adamant.

Lilly: 5:30

Yeah, it's crucial. You need enough rope to reach the ground Safely. Safely, no matter what Right. Think about tree size, climbing techniques Okay, you always need enough for a smooth descent.

Jad: 5:45

Right.

Lilly: 5:45

Even in a self-rescue situation.

Jad: 5:47

You don't want to be stuck halfway down.

Lilly: 5:48

And do not.

Jad: 5:49

With not enough rope.

Lilly: 5:51

That's a nightmare.

Jad: 5:52

Nightmare scenario and if you do need to join two ropes together.

Lilly: 5:56

Oh yeah, If you need a longer reach.

Jad: 5:57

For longer reach. Yeah, yeah, things get even more technical, they do they do Right?

Lilly: 6:02

This guide mentions specific knots and connections.

Jad: 6:06

Go joining ropes safely.

Lilly: 6:09

Oh, wow.

Jad: 6:09

It also stresses following the manufacturer's recommendations. Makes sense yeah.

Lilly: 6:14

Especially for knot types. Knot types yeah.

Jad: 6:18

And tail lengths. Okay, you don't want a poorly tied knot to be the weak link in your system.

Lilly: 6:23

Now let's talk about something crucial for both us and the trees Cambium savers.

Jad: 6:29

Cambium savers. These guys are essential. They protect both the tree from damage and your rope from wear and tear, which can extend its lifespan. Think about repeated friction against rough bark. It really takes a toll on your rope. Friction savers distribute that pressure, safeguarding both you and the tree.

Lilly: 6:53

This guide even gets into specific installation methods like double wrapping or cinching.

Jad: 7:00

It's all about choosing the right method for the tree.

Lilly: 7:03

And your specific climbing setup.

Jad: 7:05

And don't forget the guide's tip.

Lilly: 7:06

No.

Jad: 7:07

About using a throw line to retrieve them after a climb.

Lilly: 7:11

Smart thinking.

Jad: 7:12

Okay, we've talked ropes, connectors, friction savers.

Lilly: 7:17

What about the thing that connects it all?

Jad: 7:19

The piece that connects it all. Yeah, the harness, the harness. This guide breaks down the types of harnesses it does Used in tree climbing. Okay, sit, harnesses.

Lilly: 7:28

Sit harnesses Yep.

Jad: 7:29

Known for their maneuverability. Right and full body harnesses, yeah, which offer those additional attachment points.

Lilly: 7:34

So added safety.

Jad: 7:35

Added safety yeah. Yeah, it's like choosing between a sports car.

Lilly: 7:38

I like this, okay, and an SUV yeah.

Jad: 7:41

Depending on the terrain, depending on what you're doing yeah. Yeah.

Lilly: 7:44

But seriously.

Jad: 7:46

Yeah.

Lilly: 7:46

Understanding those pros and cons Right Of each harness type.

Jad: 7:50

Yeah.

Lilly: 7:51

Is crucial.

Jad: 7:52

Crucial, and it's not just about picking the right type, no Right. Well, this guide emphasizes understanding those attachment points, especially when using primary and backup systems.

Lilly: 8:04

Manufacturers provide specific guidance on which attachment points to use with different devices. It's about following those guidelines meticulously to a T, making sure every connection is secure and correct.

Jad: 8:18

Secure, correct. And, speaking of attachment points, some harnesses even have dual or multiple front attachments.

Lilly: 8:27

Those can be game changers.

Jad: 8:29

Yeah, for specific situations right.

Lilly: 8:31

Imagine needing to position yourself just right for a tricky cut or having that extra flexibility to attach additional gear.

Jad: 8:41

And a little more versatility.

Lilly: 8:42

Yeah, a little more versatility. Yeah, a little more versatility.

Jad: 8:44

A well-organized harness can make a huge difference in managing all that gear up in the tree.

Lilly: 8:50

Yeah, nobody wants to be fumbling around for the right tool while hanging 30 feet in the air.

Jad: 8:56

Exactly.

Lilly: 8:56

A well-organized harness means a safer, more efficient climb.

Jad: 9:00

Okay, before we move on, this guide has a quick but important point about chest harnesses.

Lilly: 9:07

Chest harnesses okay.

Jad: 9:08

While they can be helpful for rope ascent, it explicitly warns against those makeshift neck tethers.

Lilly: 9:15

No DIY solutions. Safety first, safety first.

Jad: 9:18

Right, yes, always.

Lilly: 9:19

We don't want any DIY solutions up there.

Jad: 9:21

No, we do not Compromising our safety Nope.

Lilly: 9:25

All right time to talk about one of the most versatile pieces of beer pieces of gear in our arsenal. Yeah, the pulley.

Jad: 9:32

The pulley.

Lilly: 9:32

The pulley is like a Swiss Army knife. A Swiss Army knife, yeah For tree climbers For tree climbers. Right, you can lift those friction headship Act as a fair lead.

Jad: 9:42

Okay, force smoother rope movement, even help you haul equipment up.

Lilly: 9:46

Right.

Jad: 9:46

To your work position. It does it all Pretty much.

Lilly: 9:49

But for all those cool tricks to work.

Jad: 9:52

Yeah.

Lilly: 9:52

This guide stresses the importance of low friction, anchor point.

Jad: 9:57

Exactly Imagine a pulley Right Trying to do its job on a rough, high friction surface. Yeah, it's like driving a car with the brakes on, it's not going to work.

Lilly: 10:06

Using friction savers to reduce friction can make a huge difference in your pulley's efficiency.

Jad: 10:13

Yeah.

Lilly: 10:14

Okay, let's wrap up this first part.

Jad: 10:16

Okay.

Lilly: 10:16

Of our deep dive Right With slings.

Jad: 10:19

Slings.

Lilly: 10:20

They seem like the adaptable problem solvers.

Jad: 10:23

There.

Lilly: 10:24

You got it Of our climbing system.

Jad: 10:25

Incredibly versatile Right.

Lilly: 10:27

But with that versatility comes responsibility, meaning we need to understand those strength readings and use them accordingly.

Jad: 10:34

So it's about choosing the right sling for the job. Using a sling beyond its limits is a recipe for disaster.

Lilly: 10:40

Exactly, yeah, yeah.

Jad: 10:42

When it comes to these versatile tools, yeah for sure. Disaster.

Lilly: 10:44

Exactly, yeah, yeah, when it comes to these versatile tools.

Jad: 10:45

Yeah, for sure. This guide. Yeah, it dives deeper into some crucial considerations. Okay, for sling usage that can really impact your safety and efficiency.

Lilly: 10:54

Okay, so we know slings are great for creating those temporary footholds, redirects and all sorts of other helpful tricks. Yep Up in the tree.

Jad: 11:02

Up in the tree.

Lilly: 11:07

But what about those times when you need to adjust?

Jad: 11:08

a sling's length.

Lilly: 11:09

Okay, can you just tie a knot in?

Jad: 11:10

it. That's where things get interesting. Okay, this guide specifically warms against tying knots in slings.

Lilly: 11:17

Oh really.

Jad: 11:17

To shorten them.

Lilly: 11:18

Okay.

Jad: 11:18

Or grief, hitching them together. Okay, to extend them. Interesting. These practices can significantly weaken the sling, put you at risk.

Lilly: 11:27

So, even though it seems like a simple solution could actually compromise.

Jad: 11:32

Yeah, compromise the sling's integrity.

Lilly: 11:34

So what's the alternative then? Do you need to adjust a sling sling?

Jad: 11:37

It's all about choosing the right sling for the job from the get-go. Take the time to assess your needs before you climb.

Lilly: 11:45

Right.

Jad: 11:46

And make sure you have a variety, okay, of sling lengths and types in your gear bag.

Lilly: 11:51

Makes sense. It's like having the right wrench Exactly For the right bolt. Yep, using the wrong one. Yeah, I'm going to strip the head.

Jad: 11:57

You're going to strip the head.

Lilly: 11:58

Create a bigger problem.

Jad: 11:59

And speaking of choosing the right sling, this guide emphasizes the importance of identification.

Lilly: 12:06

Okay.

Jad: 12:06

You need to be able to clearly distinguish between slings used for PPE and those used for rigging applications.

Lilly: 12:13

Okay, so no mixing and matching slings. Imagine accidentally using a rigging sling for personal safety.

Jad: 12:20

Oh, okay.

Lilly: 12:21

Rigging slings are designed for spatic loads, while PPE slings are designed for dynamic loads. Using the wrong one could have serious consequences.

Jad: 12:32

It's like using a climbing rope for a slack line.

Lilly: 12:34

Yeah.

Jad: 12:35

So how do you keep your slings straight?

Lilly: 12:38

This guide recommends using different colors or markings for your PPE and rigging slings.

Jad: 12:45

So you know which one's which.

Lilly: 12:46

Yeah, so there's no confusion when you reach into your gear bag.

Jad: 12:50

That's a great tip. Yep Organization is key, especially when your safety's on the line.

Lilly: 12:54

Absolutely Right.

Jad: 12:55

Yeah, now, before we move on from slings, let's touch on soft linking. What exactly is that?

Lilly: 13:01

Soft linking involves using a sling to create a flexible connection point, often between components like reinforced lanyards and mechanical adjusters. It can help improve the overall performance and efficiency.

Jad: 13:17

So it's like adding a bit of give to the system, exactly.

Lilly: 13:20

Think of it like the suspension on a car it absorbs shock and allows for smoother movement.

Jad: 13:28

Smoother movement. Okay, yeah, like any technique, it needs to be done correctly, right?

Lilly: 13:33

This guide stresses the importance of using soft links.

Jad: 13:37

Okay.

Lilly: 13:37

According to best practices and manufacturer recommendations Manufacturer recommendations yeah. All about understanding the principles behind the technique.

Jad: 13:46

Right.

Lilly: 13:47

And ensuring your setup is sound.

Jad: 13:49

Okay, let's move on to another essential piece of our climbing system Carabiners. They might seem simple, but there's actually a lot to consider.

Lilly: 13:59

There is.

Jad: 13:59

When choosing and using them. This guy dives into the details, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right type of carabiner For the job. It's about understanding the different shapes, strengths and locking mechanisms available.

Lilly: 14:15

What are some of the key factors to consider, then?

Jad: 14:18

Okay. Well, first think about the application. Okay, Are you using it for connecting your climbing system to your harness, setting up a redirect or attaching gear to your saddle? Okay, Each application might require a different carabiner shape and strength rating.

Lilly: 14:38

So a carabiner for your climbing system might be different.

Jad: 14:41

Could be.

Lilly: 14:42

From one you'd use for hanging a saw.

Jad: 14:43

Exactly Okay. And then there's the locking mechanism.

Lilly: 14:45

Okay, the locking mechanism.

Jad: 14:47

You need a screw gate, twist lock or auto locking carabiner.

Lilly: 14:51

Right, there's a lot of options. The choice depends on the level of security and your personal preference.

Jad: 14:56

It's like choosing the right lock for your door Right.

Lilly: 14:59

Okay.

Jad: 14:59

Speaking of security, this guide explicitly warns against chain linking carabiners.

Lilly: 15:07

Oh, interesting.

Jad: 15:08

Yeah, it might seem tempting to connect multiple carabiners together this way Right. But it can actually weaken them significantly.

Lilly: 15:18

It seems like adding more carabiners would make it stronger.

Jad: 15:22

Actually it's the opposite. Okay, chain linking subjects, the carabiners to torsional loading.

Lilly: 15:26

Okay.

Jad: 15:27

Which can cause them to twist or bend.

Lilly: 15:30

Right, okay, putting them at risk of failure. Using a quick link or a master Right Okay Putting them at risk of failure Using a quick link. Okay, or a master link.

Jad: 15:35

Yep.

Lilly: 15:35

These are specifically designed to handle multi-directional loads and provide a much stronger connection.

Jad: 15:42

Okay, so no more chain linking.

Lilly: 15:43

We need more chain link.

Jad: 15:44

Duly noted, Got it Now. This guide also gets into some pretty specific details about preventing cross-loading Right Cross-loading. Right Cross-loading happens when a carabiner is loaded against its gate or frame instead of along its strongest axis. This can also weaken the carabiner and make it more likely to fail.

Lilly: 16:04

So it's all about keeping those load lines.

Jad: 16:06

Yeah, keeping those load lines aligned, aligned with the carabiner's strongest point.

Lilly: 16:10

Exactly Okay.

Jad: 16:11

This guide offers some great tips for preventing cross-loading, like using clips, bands or rubber fixings to keep those carabiners oriented correctly. It's those small details that can make a big difference when it comes to safety. And speaking of details, this guide also emphasizes the importance of ensuring your carabiners are properly closed and locked. I feel like that's something we all know we do, but it's easy to get complacent, yeah.

Lilly: 16:41

Right. It's a simple check, but it's crucial. This guide recommends both a visual and tactile check. Every time you open and close a carabiner, make sure that locking mechanism is fully engaged.

Jad: 16:55

It's a good habit to develop.

Lilly: 16:57

It is.

Jad: 16:58

Especially when you're up in the tree. Yes, and your life depends on that carabiner being secure.

Lilly: 17:03

Yep and remember some carabiners like Malon Rapides require manual locking.

Jad: 17:10

Oh, okay, it's an extra step, right, but it's essential.

Lilly: 17:12

For maintaining safety. Okay, okay, it's an extra step, right, but it's essential For maintaining safety.

Jad: 17:14

Okay, let's move on to another piece of gear.

Lilly: 17:17

Okay.

Jad: 17:17

Friction savers.

Lilly: 17:18

Friction savers.

Jad: 17:19

We touched on these earlier, but I think it's worth diving a little deeper. I agree Into their proper usage.

Lilly: 17:24

Friction savers or cambium savers.

Jad: 17:27

Right. So how do you know if you need to use a friction saver? Are there any specific situations?

Lilly: 17:32

Yeah, this guide mentions a few key scenarios. First, if you're working in a tree with thin or delicate bark, a friction saver can help prevent damage and promote healthy tree growth. Second, if you're using a climbing system that involves a lot of rope movement, A friction saver can reduce wear and tear on your rope.

Jad: 17:54

Okay.

Lilly: 17:54

Extending its lifespan.

Jad: 17:55

So it's about being proactive and protecting both the tree and your equipment.

Lilly: 18:01

And your equipment.

Jad: 18:01

Right.

Lilly: 18:02

Yeah, and this guide even suggests using friction savers on anchor points.

Jad: 18:06

Okay.

Lilly: 18:07

Even if you're not directly climbing on them.

Jad: 18:09

Interesting.

Lilly: 18:14

This on them.

Jad: 18:14

Interesting. This helps to minimize wear and tear on your rope as it passes through the anchor. That's a great tip, yep. It's those small details that can really make a difference.

Lilly: 18:19

Absolutely Over time Over time.

Jad: 18:20

Yeah, now what about installation methods?

Lilly: 18:23

Installation methods. This guide mentions double wrapping Okay or cinching friction savers.

Jad: 18:29

Right.

Lilly: 18:29

Around the tree stem. Those are great options when you don't have a suitable branch fork available for attaching the friction saver.

Jad: 18:38

Right, okay.

Lilly: 18:39

It's all about adapting to the tree's structure and finding the best way to secure that friction saver.

Jad: 18:46

And don't forget the guide's recommendation to use a throw line to retrieve them after a climb.

Lilly: 18:51

Saves you from having to climb back up to get them.

Jad: 18:52

Yeah, Work smarter not harder up to get them. Yeah, work smarter, not harder, right.

Lilly: 18:56

Okay, okay, let's shift gears and talk about another essential piece of equipment that often needs a bit of extra attention.

Jad: 19:04

Okay.

Lilly: 19:05

The rope. We briefly discussed rope selection earlier, right, but this guide dives deeper into the importance of proper care and maintenance.

Jad: 19:16

Makes sense. Our lives depend on these ropes.

Lilly: 19:18

Exactly.

Jad: 19:19

So it's crucial to keep them in top condition. Top condition Right.

Lilly: 19:23

This guide stresses the importance of inspecting your ropes regularly.

Jad: 19:28

Regularly.

Lilly: 19:28

For any signs of wear and tear.

Jad: 19:30

So it's not just about checking your gear before a climb.

Lilly: 19:33

No no.

Jad: 19:34

It's about regularly inspecting your ropes.

Lilly: 19:37

Regularly.

Jad: 19:37

Throughout their lifespan. Yeah, what are some things to look for during these inspections.

Lilly: 19:42

You want to pay attention to the core of the rope.

Jad: 19:46

The core okay.

Lilly: 19:46

If you can see the core fibers, okay, through the sheath.

Jad: 19:50

Right.

Lilly: 19:50

That's a sign of significant wear and tear. Okay, Also check for any flat spots or inconsistencies in the rope's diameter. These could indicate damage to the core fibers.

Jad: 20:03

So it's not just about surface level scratches. Yeah, we need to be looking for deeper damage.

Lilly: 20:07

Deeper damage Yep.

Jad: 20:08

It might not be immediately apparent, exactly Right.

Lilly: 20:12

And don't forget to inspect the ends of your ropes.

Jad: 20:15

Why the ends specifically?

Lilly: 20:16

The ends are often subject to the most wear and tear especially if you're using knots to tie in. Okay, makes sense.

Jad: 20:24

So what can we do, then, to extend the lifespan of our ropes and prevent premature wear and tear?

Lilly: 20:31

First, avoid dragging your ropes over rough surfaces like concrete or rock. This can cause abrasion and weaken the rope fibers.

Jad: 20:40

Okay.

Lilly: 20:41

Second, protect your rope from excessive heat or sunlight. Prolonged exposure to these elements can degrade the rope's strength and flexibility. And, speaking of care, proper storage is essential. When not in use, store your ropes in a cool, dry place.

Jad: 21:00

Okay, cool dry place.

Lilly: 21:01

Away from chemicals or other potentially damaging substances.

Jad: 21:05

Makes sense. These are great tips. I think it's easy to overlook.

Lilly: 21:08

It is.

Jad: 21:08

Rope care and maintenance, but this guide really drives home the importance of it. After all, our ropes are our lifelines up in the tree.

Lilly: 21:18

Absolutely Right, yep, a well-maintained rope is a safe rope.

Jad: 21:22

Okay, let's move on. Mechanical adjusters Touched on these earlier. Yeah, we did when discussing lanyards, but I think it's worth exploring them in more detail.

Lilly: 21:32

Yeah.

Jad: 21:32

I agree, given their versatility and importance Absolutely In modern tree climbing techniques.

Lilly: 21:37

Mechanical adjusters have become indispensable tools Right For many climbers.

Jad: 21:42

For sure.

Lilly: 21:43

Offering precise rope control and increased efficiency.

Jad: 21:47

Efficiency, yeah, so we know, mechanical adjusters are great. Yeah For managing rope slack, position ourselves precisely on a climb.

Lilly: 21:56

Yeah, but it's amazing how different lanyard configurations.

Jad: 22:00

Yeah, how they can impact how an adjuster works. What are some of the key things to consider when it comes to lanyard setup and adjuster performance?

Lilly: 22:10

Lanyard configuration plays a crucial role in how smoothly and effectively your adjuster functions. For example, using a doubled lanyard can create more friction in the system, which can make it harder for the adjuster to grip and slide along the rope.

Jad: 22:29

So it's like trying to pull a heavy object up a hill. Yeah, the steeper, the incline, yeah, the more force you need.

Lilly: 22:35

Exactly Right and, conversely, using a single leg lanyard.

Jad: 22:39

Okay, single leg lanyard Can reduce friction Okay.

Lilly: 22:42

Allowing the adjuster to move more freely. This can also make it easier for the adjuster to slip.

Jad: 22:47

Okay If it's not properly engaged.

Lilly: 22:50

So it's a balancing act, it is Right.

Jad: 22:51

Yeah Between finding the right amount of friction for your specific climbing system and ensuring the adjuster is securely locked at all times, and this guide even mentions the possibility of adding friction behind the adjuster.

Lilly: 23:05

Yeah, think about those single leg setups.

Jad: 23:07

Right.

Lilly: 23:07

Where the adjuster might need a little extra help to grip securely.

Jad: 23:12

So it's all about those fine tuning adjustments Exactly that can make a big difference. It can In how your system performs. Yeah, Stay curious, stay informed and always prioritize safety.

Lilly: 23:23

Prioritize safety.

Jad: 23:24

Right and with that, keep climbing, keep climbing.

Lilly: 23:27

Keep exploring.

Jad: 23:28

Keep exploring.

Lilly: 23:29

And keep those branches safe.

Jad: 23:32

Until next time, happy climbing everyone.

Roger: 23:38

That wraps up today's episode of Talking Trees. We hope you found this deep dive into tree climbing and aerial rescue equipment both insightful and practical. Don't forget to share this episode with your friends and join us next time for more tips and discussions from the world of arboriculture. Until then, stay safe and keep climbing.