| Name | Age | Sex | Injuries | Injured areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redshaw, Dean | 55 | Male | Bruise | Foot |
Five cavers were exploring a new cave in Dry Valley in Wayne County, Kentucky. Digging open the entrance, it was found to lead quickly to a 50-foot drop where a cable ladder was rigged but no belay was used. The cave at the bottom soon ended and the cavers started to leave. Dean Redshaw (55) became arm weary a little over halfway up the pit. He began backing down but lost his hold completely when a foot slipped. He slowed his descent somewhat by pressing in on the sides of the ladder with his hands. He landed on small breakdown, severely bruising his left foot, but luckily was otherwise unhurt. He rested and then was belayed up the drop.
Analysis: Cable ladders are deceptive. They look easy but in fact are more tiring than a properly set up SRT rig. Moreover, people tend to use them without belay, and in this near-accident. Also, visual inspection will not reveal the strength of a ladder.
Fell off cable ladder. COG Squeaks 22(5) May79 p38. COG Squeaks 22(5) May79, P39.
This record was last updated on 27th Apr 2024 at 23:11 UTC.