Verbal Commands for Climbers, Rappellers, and Belayers
Communication is essential when working on the climbing merit badge. At one point you will either be the one climbing, rappelling, or belaying. Knowing the verbal command for each spot is key to make sure that everyone, including yourself, is safe.
Why verbal commands? The nature of climbing and rappelling causes you to be in areas that do not have the best line of sights. As the belayer, you typically only see the bottom half of your partner who is climbing or rappelling. As you are unable to see directly what the climber or rappeller is seeing or experiencing, the next best thing is to communicate verbally. Also, while belaying and holding the life of your partner in your hands, the verbal commands are an excellent way to ensure each other that your all on the same page and paying attention. If the weather is causing you to be unable to use the verbal commands, be safe and postpone until the wind dies down. The one position that is involved in both scenarios is that of the belay.