Zip-wire
What to expect
Travel at speed, safely suspended from an overhead cable with a harness. Will you relax and take in the view or scream with excitement? Either way, you’re in for a fun-filled adventure.
You’ll find zip wires in all sorts of places and they vary in length, but to take on any zip wire, you’ll need to strap in, breathe deep, and take a leap of faith into the unknown.
Fun facts
- The world’s fastest zip wire lets people reach speeds of up to one hundred miles per hour! Chances are, you’ll be going significantly slower (though it may still feel pretty speedy).
- You can find zip wires in all sorts of unusual places including over water, underground, and in caves.
Handy hints
- Dress for the occasion. Being off the ground and flying through the air can get chilly, especially if you’re high up in the wind, so be prepared with a warmer layer. Don’t rely on a big, puffy coat as you may need to take it off to wear the harness.
- Grab some extra hair bobbles. People with long hair will probably need to tie it back. Take a few extra hair ties, just in case anyone forgets.
Safety
You must always:
- Complete a risk assessment
- Have the right ratios of number of adults to provide suitable supervision
- Set up an InTouch process
- Know what to do in an emergency
- Share information with parents and carers with an activity information form
- Get approval from your Lead Volunteer.
Be safe outdoors:
- Check the weather forecast
High ropes:
- Check the definitions for high ropes in POR 9.12.5 and follow the relevant rules for delivering the activity
Joint activities with other organisations:
- This activity can be run jointly with Girlguiding.
- This activity can be run with other organisations.
This activity can be led by you or someone else in Scouts
You can go to a centre or use an activity leader who is not part of Scouting:
You must find a suitable provider who meets the following requirements:- The centre/instructor should hold one of these:
- European Ropes Course Association - accredited provider
- Adventure Mark - centre
The provider must have public liability insurance.
Guidance
Reflection
Zip wires give people the chance to be courageous and try new things in a safe environment. How did people feel before they gave it a go? People could think about how their bodies felt – maybe they had a nervous feeling in their tummy, shaking hands, or unsteady feet. Did anyone surprise themselves with their bravery? How did it feel to be on the zip wire? Some people may have relaxed, sat back, and enjoyed the view, while others might have screamed in excitement – there’s not a right way to enjoy the experience. How did people feel after their turn? Some people may have experienced an overwhelming rush of run and adrenaline, while others may have felt exhausted, or ready to try it again.
Get in touch with your local provider to chat through the needs of people in your group – make sure you give them plenty of notice. Many outdoor centres have facilities that cater for people with additional needs and experienced instructors to help everyone achieve their goals.
All Scout activities should be inclusive and accessible.
Anyone who enjoyed the challenge of a zip wire may want to try another activity in the air, such as an aerial runway or high ropes.