Safety when climbing
Via ferratas combine the beauty of nature with the thrill of mountain sports. They lead you through steep rock faces, over exposed passages and breathtaking suspension bridges, always secured by a steel cable. However, these impressive experiences also require good preparation, caution and the right equipment.
Follow these important rules to stay safe on the trail:
- Fitness & technique: via ferratas require stamina, a head for heights and surefootedness - don't underestimate the physical effort involved.
- Equipment: Always use a via ferrata set and helmet and always attach yourself to the safety rope. Many mountain rescue missions are the result of carelessness or sudden changes in the weather.
- Time planning: Plan enough time - many tours with ascent and descent take the whole day. Find out about the weather forecast and adjust your equipment and provisions accordingly.
- Consideration: Show respect for other climbers, inform them about dangers and behave carefully.
- Environment: Don't leave any rubbish behind and treat nature with care - take your experiences with you, but not your rubbish.
This will make your climbing experience not only safe, but also unforgettable!
ALPIN EMERGENCY CALL
Mountain rescue 140
Euro emergency call 112
Difficulty rating for via ferratas (Schall scale)
The Schall scale is used to categorise the difficulty of via ferratas, whereby the ratings are subjective and only serve as a guide:
- A - Easy (blue): Secured via ferrata on flat to moderately steep terrain, ideal for beginners and children. Via ferrata set recommended.
- B - Moderately difficult (blue-red): Steeper terrain with exposed passages, sure-footedness and basic via ferrata equipment required.
- C - Difficult (red): Steep to very steep terrain with strenuous passages and demanding technique. Rope protection recommended for children.
- D - Very difficult (red-black): Vertical to overhanging terrain with high demands on technique, strength and psyche. Not suitable for beginners.
- E - Extremely difficult (black): Overhanging terrain with maximum demands on strength, technique and courage. Only for experienced via ferrata climbers.
This scale helps you to choose the right route according to your own abilities.
You can find more information here.