Climbing is a great way to have fun as well as exercise! With varying different climbing challenges for all ages, we have something for everyone, but above all else we put safety at the heart of what we do. So, before you book your next climbing adventure, here are 5 essential safety tips you need to follow when visiting Clip ‘n Climb Ilkley.

Wear appropriate clothing

Whilst we would hope you would choose to wear comfortable clothes to come climbing anyway, we do have to ask that you wear loose fitting clothes to give you plenty of flexibility to climb! Additionally, no jewellery is allowed, nor are crocs, rock shoes, heels, flip flops or anything with open toes. If you wear glasses, please ensure they fit securely, or you can also opt to wear contact lenses. Hair also needs to be tied back, with anything that can be ate, drunk or chewed left in your bag. The reason for this is any part of your body that can get stuck could lead to an accident, or if chewing or drinking cause you to not pay attention, so unfortunately if you don’t follow these rules, you will be unable to climb. We’d  rather tell you before you come as we’d hate to turn you away!

Leave enough time to attend the safety briefing

We ask you to arrive 20 minutes before your booking slot to give enough time for harnessing and to get the younger ones used to the environment. Your safety briefing begins 5 minutes before the time you have booked your session. This is mandatory each time before climbing for safety and compliance reasons. During this briefing we explain how the harness works with our Auto Belay which is 100% safe as well as have your safety harness checked – giving you the confidence to try any of our climbing walls!

Listen to the climbing instructors

Our instructors are experienced indoor climbers themselves and take part in testing new walls. Each member of staff has been trained before a new facility opens, giving you peace of mind that they will always ensure that you have what you need, as well as providing you with any help or support.

We also roll out an ongoing programme of new training for new walls, which all our staff have recently completed. Sometimes, children who haven’t climbed before can get a little anxious when they climb the walls and need assistant on the walls. Although this is rare, it’s good peace of mind for parents to know all our team are on hand and trained to guide your child back down to ground safely.

Encourage Communication

Encouraging effective communication is paramount to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for children at Clip ‘n Climb. Parents should empower their children to express any concerns or uncertainties they may encounter while navigating the climbing walls. Reinforcing the importance of clear communication with the staff fosters a sense of confidence and trust in both the child and the safety measures in place. Whether it’s asking for assistance with harness adjustments, seeking guidance on a particular climbing technique, or voicing discomfort in any way, children should feel empowered to speak up without hesitation. This open line of communication not only allows staff members to quickly address any issues or provide assistance but also cultivates a culture of safety awareness among young climbers. By instilling the value of communication early on, parents equip their children with the tools to advocate for their safety and well-being, ultimately enhancing the overall enjoyment of the Clip ‘n Climb experience for everyone involved.

Climb safely!

Once you’ve come climbing a few times you’ll know this like the back of your hand. There are however a few safety tips you need to follow for every climb. We ask that you do not hold onto or pull on the webbing whilst climbing nor swing during your descent. Apart from the risks to your own safety, this can pose a danger or distraction for others. Please also do not walk on articulated mats when lying flat on the floor, as this means there’s a climber on the wall at that time. Aside from that, always make sure your safety clip is on and away you go!

Are you ready to start your first climb in Ilkley? You can find all information on booking your visit here.

Do Clip n Climb provide lockers? It doesn’t say so under facilities so might be worth adding this here if they do