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Always have three reliable sources of light when you are caving. "Reliable" means that your lights are in working order and you have extra batteries and bulbs. If you run out of light you will be in total darkness, which makes getting out of a cave extremely dangerous if not impossible. The best lights are mounted on your helmet, leaving your hands free to negotiate the cave. If you lose your lights, sit still and wait for help. Wear a helmet. Helmets protect you from falling rocks, falling on rocks, and knocking yourself unconscious on low-hanging ceilings. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return. Wear adequate footwear. Sturdy, lace-up, boots with non-slip soles and good ankle support help prevent falls and injury. Wear gloves to protect your hands from wetness, cold, and abrasion. Dress appropriately for the cave you're visiting. Motherlode caves are seasonally cool and wet, so bring clothing that will keep you warm even if you get soaked. Bring enough water and food when you're caving. Even on an uneventful trip, you might be underground longer than you think. Move carefully through the cave. There may be sudden vertical drops, loose rocks, and low ceilings. Look where you're going. Avoid climbing above or below other cavers, as loose rocks are frequently dislodged. Remember that you'll probably have to climb back up, or back down, any drops you negotiate, so avoid sliding, jumping, or overextending yourself. Some Motherlode caves exhibit the phenomenon of "bad air," in which oderless carbon dioxide builds up to potentially lethal levels. If you don't know how to check for this, get involved with some experienced cavers who do know. Use appropriate equipment and learn to use it correctly. Many caves are horizontal and can be explored without vertical equipment. Vertical training is available through NSS grottos. Cave with other people. That way, there are people to help if you get stuck or have problems. Minor injuries, running out of light, needing a boost, or getting tired can become serious emergencies if there is no one to help you. Caving alone is taking a dangerous risk. Be aware of flood danger. Stay out of caves that flood if there is a likelihood of rain. Wait for dry weather. If you want to explore underwater caves, it is imperative to get proper cave diving certification first, even if you are a certified open water diver. Visit the NSS Cave Diving Section web site. Caves can be very unpredictable. Safety issues are numerous and specific to different locations and caving activities. If you're a beginner, we strongly recommend seeking out more experienced companions. But don't just rely on someone else's experience. Cultivate your own judgement and know your own abilities. Pages and their contents © Copyright 2000, 2001 by Elizabeth Bunnell, except where otherwise noted.