Where should ice anchors be placed for optimal safety?

Placing ice anchors in hollows or recesses provides optimal safety because these locations often offer the best structural support within the ice. Hollows can create a naturally formed cavity that may help distribute the load more evenly across the anchor, reducing the chances of failure. This positioning allows the anchor to engage with more stable and thicker sections of ice, ensuring greater resistance to potential pull-out forces during rescue operations.

On the other hand, placing anchors in bulges of ice might introduce variability; while bulges may seem strong, they can also be prone to fracture or shifting under load. Anchoring on bare rock surfaces is typically less desirable in ice rescue scenarios, as it does not provide the necessary grip and may lead to anchor failure. Additionally, placing anchors at the top of steep slopes lacks stability, as the force exerted could pull the anchor down the slope or disengage it. It is important to carefully assess these variables to ensure the utmost safety during rope rescue operations in icy conditions.