Which sequence represents the rappel commands?

• A. On belay, belay on, on rappel, rappel on
• B. On belay, belay off, on rappel, rappel on
• C. Belay on, on belay, rappel on, on rappel
• D. On belay, belay on, rappel on, on rappel

Answer: (A)

Rappelling starts with confirming a secure belay before any descent commands. The sequence begins by establishing the belay: asking to be on belay, then receiving confirmation that the belay is active. Once the belay is in place, you signal your intention to descend with the command that you are on rappel. Finally, you initiate the descent by saying rappel on, which tells the belayer to allow or drive the descent.

This order matters because a solid belay is the foundation of safety in a rappel. If you jump to rappel-related commands without confirming the belay, there’s no checked system to control the rope. Saying you are on rappel before the belay is active would create confusion about who is controlling the rope. Likewise, starting with a rappel command before the climber has confirmed being on rappel would jump the descent too early.

So the best sequence is: On belay, belay on, on rappel, rappel on.