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Aerial runway

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Description

An activity in which participants travel from a height down a rope or wire. Aerial runways can be fixed (for example a permanent structure at an activity centre) or temporary (for example built during a camp or fun day).

 

Forms

An Information and Consent for Event/Activity form is required to participate in this activity.

 

Who can participate?

Open to all.

Some activity providers may have age or height restrictions.

 

Ratio of adults to girls

Normal ratios for activities away from the meeting place are required.  Guiding Manual ratios

 

Regulations

  • The Leader must ensure that all participants under the age of 18 have written permission to take part from an adult with parental responsibility.
  • The local Commissioner must be informed that the activity is taking place.
  • Carry out a risk assessment for the activity.
  • When using a commercial activity provider, ensure it is reputable. You can verify the quality of a provider by checking it has one of the following endorsements: AALA, Adventuremark or LotC Quality Badge for Adventure.

The above endorsements are not applicable in Northern Ireland, where you should ask your local Outdoor Activities Adviser to recommend an approved provider.

 

Instructor qualifications

Aerial runways must be constructed, maintained and operated by an experienced person who has completed the relevant training of the venue where the activity is taking place.

 

Useful information

An aerial runway which is built at a low height (under 3 metres) is classed as a zip wire.

If you are planning to construct your own aerial runway for an event or campsite, use the Girlguiding UK Aerial Runway Checklist.

Girlguiding UK Activity Centres

Try this activity at: 

Blackland Farm (Sussex), Foxlease (Hampshire), Hautbois (Norfolk) or  Netherurd (Peeblesshire)

Page last updated: 10/13/2011