Canyoneering Signals

[rcwild]

People use a variety of whistle and hand signals when canyoneering. It can get confusing when going out with new partners for the first time if you don't take time to clarify what signals will be used.

There are some well-established standards, though I don't think very many people are aware of them. So I created a canyoneering signals sheet that is designed to be laminated and carried to be used as a handy reference.

Enjoy.

http://canyoneering.us/docs/lam_signals.pdf

[Don]

Thanks Rich, this could be useful. The only book we've ever used for signals really isn't helping us a lot;

[Pubalz]

Don thats the same book i use

[Ryebrye]

I like how it's 3 long blasts for when you are screwed. (Yes, I know this is an established standard, I still think it's funny)

It reminds me of the helpful emergency number: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RK4Xye7AErE

Just remember the new number: "0118 999 881 999 119 7253"

[denaliguide]

I like how it's 3 long blasts for when you are screwed. (Yes, I know this is an established standard, I still think it's funny)

It reminds me of the helpful emergency number: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RK4Xye7AErE

Just remember the new number: "0118 999 881 999 119 7253"

that's why i put 911 on speed dial. it's now *57

and can it really be considered a "well established standard" if not that many people know about it? just thinkin out loud.

[rcwild]

and can it really be considered a "well established standard" if not that many people know about it? just thinkin out loud.

Poorly worded on my part perhaps, but yes. There are well established standards in the international canyoneering community, among canyon guides and SAR teams, etc. that many recreational canyoneers don't know about, especially canyoneers who are relatively new to the sport. I have also had many experiences with new partners who told me they recognized the signals from their experience as a crane operator, long shoreman, rafting guide, etc. etc.

Does everyone know that 3 (whistle blasts, gun shots, signal fires, etc) is an internationally recognized distress signal? Of course some of you will answer yes, but many people don't know.

[Pubalz]

I know we use 3 long air horn blasts in high rise construction sites to evacuate the tower and low rise buildings