Canyoning is an activity that takes place in a specific environment where aquatic problems are combined with those of verticality.
This article reminds you of good practices when you are with friends or even accompanied by a professional guide or canyon monitor.
Respect for nature and preservation of the ecosystem
A hot topic, and at the heart of the news! The practice of canyoning must take into account the inhabitants of the canyon but also other users, whether human or animal.
Respect for nature:
- I pick up my garbage.
- I do not pour anything into the water and do not disturb it.
- I do not lift trunks or stones unnecessarily.
- I do not trample the vegetation or the riverbed.
- I swim when the depth is sufficient, I walk on the banks avoiding water when possible.
Respect for residents:
I park my vehicle properly on the car parks or reserved place.
I avoid making noise unnecessarily.
I close gates, fences and bans.
Individual equipment
Canyoning is practiced in cold water, it will be necessary to equip with all the necessary equipment to enjoy its output, but also to evolve in safety.
- Integral neoprene overall thickness 4 to 7 mm
- Helmet
- Neoprene slippers
- Harness with 2 lanyards and plastic breeches for toboggans
- Descender and screw carabiners
- Shoes with anti-slip soles and which protects the foot well
- Rope climbing equipment
- Self emptying canyon bag
- The collective equipment of the group
A can or sealed bag containing:
- Headlamp
- Pharmacy
- Drinks and food if necessary.
In the bag :
- Diving mask
- Knife
- Rope climbing equipment with self-locking anchors
- Rescue rope
- Main rope
Preparation of the exit
Whatever the planned canyon outing, it will be necessary to prepare a minimum and act responsibly.
- I get information from local professionals, guides, instructors or federal organizations clubs
- I consult the topos available on www.canyoning.com or downhill-canyon
- I adapt my output to the lowest level, the group size, the age of the participants and the motivation.
- I inquire about the legislation
- I know the possible loopholes
- I consult the weather
- I do not go alone, and I warn someone from the canyon where I am
- I take food, water and all the necessary materials
The progression in the canyon
- I progress by walking in the canyon in a careful and alert manner
- I do not jump into basins without having personally surveyed
- I secure the access at the top of the cascades and install handrails if necessary
- I check the strength of the moorings
- I enkite the strings and I check the condition and the length
- I constantly monitor the flow and the color of the water
- I leave the canyon if the weather deteriorates or if there is a risk of a storm
- I stay in a group
- And above all: I KNOW TO RENOUNCE IN CASE OF DOUBT
Information and number of secours useful in Haute-Savoie for help:
- Rescue Team: 112
- Radio: Channel E EMERGENCY: 161,300 MHz
Other information :
- Topo of canyoning online: https://www.descente-canyon.com/
- Canyon Practice Site: http://www.canyoning.com/
- Discover canyoning with the Annecy Guide Office https://www.annecyguidesmontagne.com/canyoning