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Caving is inherently dangerous. It is your responsibility to obtain proper training before venturing into a cave.
BASIC SAFETY GUIDELINES
- Let at least three people know where you are going with an estimated time of return.
- Each person on the trip should bring at least three light sources. Why?
- Only enter caves you have permission to enter.
- If the trip is vertical, each person should have their own vertical gear.
- Always have one person check your vertical gear before getting on rope.
- Everyone should be satisfied with the rigging before getting on rope.
- The group entering a cave should consist of at least three individuals.
- Obtain a map of the cave if available.
BASIC CAVING RISKS
- Cave entrances can be the home of many different critters, some of which can be poisonous.
- A few that inhabit the caves of the Guadalupe Mountains are:
- Several different species of Rattlesnakes
- Black Widow spiders
- Brown Recluse spiders
- Centipedes (6-8 inches long)
- The cave environment itself contains many hazards
- Low ceilings
- Slick floors
- Loose ceilings
- Pits and exposure
- Mud and Water
- Cold damp temperatures
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