Why are high lines more prone to failure?

High lines are more prone to failure primarily due to critical angles. In the context of rope rescue operations, critical angles refer to the angles formed between the high line and the horizontal when tension is applied. If these angles become too sharp, they can create significant additional forces on the anchoring points, potentially leading to failures. This is because high lines need to remain taut to distribute weight evenly and maintain stability. If the angle is not managed carefully, the load can shift unpredictably, increasing the risk of failure in the system.

Moreover, critical angles can also lead to excessive strain on the equipment used, including carabiners and anchors, which may not be designed to handle such loads at steep angles. Therefore, understanding and managing critical angles is essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of high lines during rescue operations.