Its called calculated risk.The trick is in knowing when to draw the "lakshman rekha"(line of control)..

some of our regular professions are more risky than others.surgery is very risky for each patient but is a routine procedure for the performing surgeon.

sometimes overconfidence tends to push the line of control more into the danger zone which probably is what happened to your friend.you can never afford to compromise on certain essentialities (aka rope).

anyhow i am sorry for your loss.

 for all know your limits and act accordingly

do it right - the first time!