Poison Ivy: "Leaves of three, let them be!"
Poison ivy can occur as a ground cover or as a creeping vine on a tree. It is characterized by its compound leaf structure, divided into three leaflets. The vine stem clings closely to the tree and is covered with fine, reddish brown fibrous root hairs that appear furry as compared to other vines. The separate twigs that support the leaves often grow straight out from the trunk of the tree in a ninety degree angle up to three feet (1 meter). In the Spring, poison ivy bears white, berry-like fruits which are eaten by birds but are poisonous to humans. The leaves turn a bright red color in the fall before falling off. All parts of the poison ivy plant contain a volatile resin that can cause severe skin inflammation, itching and blistering. People who are hyperallergic to poison ivy react violently, necessitating an immediate visit to the emergency room to prevent asphyxiation.
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Eastern poison ivy (mature)
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Young poison ivy leaves
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Poison ivy vine--
note the fine red hairs -
Western (or Pacific) poison oak
Take precautions if you suspect there is poison ivy in the area. Put your gear on a ground tarp when you take it out. Use a rope bag during your ascent and descent to prevent rope contact with the poison ivy. Some sensitive climbers get good results from coating their skin with preventative salves prior to a climb.
If you suspect exposure, do not try to wash off poison ivy with hot water! The heat opens your skin pores and may aggravate more than help the situation. Instead, wash thoroughly using cold water as soon as possible. If you wipe yourself with rubbing alcohol or other specialized solutions which act as a solvent to remove the irritating resins (such as tecnu), the effects of poison ivy can often be avoided. Don't leave home without it!
Important: Before you venture out, always ask your climbing team if anyone is especially allergic to poison ivy. You will choose a climbing tree that has no visible poison ivy. To be safe, your partner should prepare by wearing a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, and take other preventive measures.
Finally, don't spread the toxic poison ivy resin through its exposure to infected articles like clothing, shoes, and climbing rope. Wash all ropes that have been exposed to poison ivy. Use a mild detergent that does not contain bleach. You could save yourself or others who may use your rope months later from a severe reaction.
