Before walking on a highline, you must already be able to install it... and even if it is not in itself that complicated, it is a process which each time requires different thinking depending on the place, and which, if If done incorrectly, it can be fatal. It is therefore better to think carefully before venturing onto a highline!
Here are the key points needed to install a highline safely:
Equipment : it is important to know your equipment before putting it above the ground: the lifespan of the straps is not unlimited, and like any good climbing rope, we look at its condition before using it. 'to use. You also have to remember that in highlining, everything is doubled: from the strap to the anchors through the leash which connects us to the harness, you always have to have a “back up” in case something breaks.
The location: It goes without saying that to have a safe highline, the location must of course be suitable for it: a high enough height will allow you to fall correctly without your safety, and not hit the ground. In addition, a place with good stone will allow a solid installation.
The team: knowing the other members of the team is important in the highline, you have to know how to trust yourself and rely on the abilities of others, given that you cannot be everywhere at the same time. Having a trusted team is therefore very important.
Technique: there are some techniques to know to install a line, such as triangulation between points, and the handling of equipment specific to the practice of sport. Knowing these aspects is also extremely important for safety.
Airspace: We are not all alone in the airspace and it is important to respect it, preventing paragliders if necessary, but especially helicopters and planes circling nearby (rescue, etc.).
Knowing all this, I was able to install lines in a wide variety of places: From a sand dune, to the ice of a glacier, through sandstone, limestone, granite, trees or even “dead bodies”. Each time, we had to think about the position of the anchors, the techniques for installing the line, etc. And it always went more or less well!
