13212 SE Eastgate Way, Bellevue, WA 98005

FAQs

Is it safe?

Very! Contrary to recreational rappelling, every Over the Edge event is set up as an industrial worksite, and as a result, is compliant with all federal and state OSHA Fall Protection Standards and OSHA Federal and State Laws. All Over the Edge sites have trained industrial rope specialists, all of which are IRATA or SPRAT certified. Each event site has a comprehensive Site Inspection & Safety Plan completed, and if every potential risk cannot be mitigated, then the site will not be approved by the Operations Manager.

Are Seattle Humane staff manning the ropes?

Absolutely not! We leave this to the professionals! Over The Edge, Inc. will send a team of trained technicians to install and operate the ropes for our event.

Who is Over The Edge, Inc?

Over The Edge (OTE) is a special events company that provides signature fundraising events for nonprofit organizations globally. Participants are invited to raise funds in exchange for the thrilling experience of rappelling down the side of a building. OTE’s mission is “Raising millions for nonprofit partners around the globe and shaping how organizations and people think about themselves and the community they engage in.”

Are we allowed to just come watch these crazy people?

Please do! We welcome all spectators and cheerleaders!

Can I come and volunteer?

We would love your volunteer help! If you’re interested in volunteering for the event, please send an email to events@seattlehumane.org and we’ll let you know what opportunities we have available.

Can I pay for the spot instead of fundraising?

Of course! You can guarantee yourself this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by paying the $2,500. Please share your participation with friends and family to encourage more support of pets in need!

What happens if I don't make it to the $2500 goal? 

There are a couple of options here. You are welcome to pay whatever the difference is yourself, if you'd still like to rappel! Just notify us one day in advance if that is your plan and you haven't already chosen a "Guaranteed Stuntperson" spot. Unfortunately, if that isn't an option and you do not reach the goal, you will not be able to participate. You still helped raise necessary funds to support all the life-saving work we do, and you are welcome to come down and be a cheerleader on event day! Please note, the donations will not be returned to the people who donated. 

Do I need to have any rappelling or rock climbing experience?

No prior rappelling or climbing experience is necessary. When you arrive on site, you will be given instructions on how to use the equipment. Proper rappelling position, where to keep your feet and hands, and use of the radios that participants wear will be discussed during the training session.

How old do I need to be?

We can take climbers of any age, but if you’re under 18, you’ll need to have a parent or guardian there at registration to sign the waiver for your participation.

Are there weight restrictions to participate?

Yes. Those people who are rappelling need to weigh between 100-350 pounds.

What happens if I freeze up while I’m part-way down?

No problem! If you freeze up any time while on rope, you can just give our technicians the designated hand signal (which you will be taught on-site), and they will lower you the rest of the way down.

Can I wear a go-pro?

Absolutely! The camera will need to be secured to you to the satisfaction of the technicians on site, but this is a common request and a fun way to remember the experience. Don’t forget to share your videos with us, too!

Am I allowed to go down at the same time as my friend/peer/arch nemesis?

Unfortunately this isn’t something we can guarantee for everyone, BUT there might be an incentive offered to our fundraisers in the weeks leading up to the big day that would give them the chance to go over the edge alongside the participant of their choosing. Stay tuned for more!


If you have questions, please contact Donor Services at (425) 373-5382 or donations@seattlehumane.org.

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