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Caving Checklist:
There can be grave danger in the sport of caving (Spelunking). Even a small cave
can be very demanding and unforgiving. Have a physical if there is any question
as to whether you are fit enough for caving. Do you have any limitation that you
are aware of such as claustrophobia, heart condition , diabetes etc. Only you and you doctor can determine
if you are fit enough to go caving. There is no attempt to determine your
fitness in this checklist. Equipment and supplies:
Coveralls so that you don't have to worry about things coming un-tucked and
reduce snagging in a crawl.
Long Johns if the cave is cold
Fleece jacket or a flannel shirt and sweater. Dress in layers so you can remove
or add as necessary
Bump cap with chin strap and a hands free miner's type headlamp
Gloves, preferably lined, and waterproof with grip beads or at least a pair of
leather gloves.
Good waterproof hiking boots and 2 pairs of thick wool socks minimum
Extra batteries
and bulbs or alternate light source such as a "Battery-less"
flashlight.
Drinking Water and or for a multi day stay -a purifying system- water
underground is often contaminated from bat and rodent feces.
Bring
a small to medium back or shoulder pack. Something with click buckles or Velcro that you
can easily take off and push in front of you in a tight place.
First Aid Kit (Bandages, Antibiotic Ointment, Tweezers)
Avoid
alcohol of any kind as alcohol causes dehydration and impairs your judgment.
Extra Snacks or Packed
Lunch
An inexpensive camera is always a nice addition but it may be damaged
Garbage bag to
carry out garbage
Toilet paper and zip lock bags to carry it out. (nothing is worse than being in
a cave that smell of human excrement and you never where just where it is)
3 able friends - one will not be able to get you out if you are disabled
File a route plan with someone left behind, ( your "failsafe") who can notify the authorities if
you fail to return by a designated time.
We do not recommend a compass as iron deposits can give you a false reading instead
use dead reckoning and verify you location on a map (survey) before proceeding /
GPS to get you to
the cave
Map
of cave & Detailed directions to get to the cave. A copy of these
should also be left with your failsafe.
Consider the following:
When choosing someone to go with you:
Be willing to accept their limitations
Choose someone with a similar mind set or
it can become extremely
annoying when you realize that you are committed spend
time in close confines with a person you find abrasive.
Remember you may have to carry them out or visa versa.
Children can be exposed to to caving but not until your skills are such that
you can compensate for their inexperience.
Taking Your Dog Along? DON'T
Dogs may run off and can get lost.
Caves are Muddy and full of sharp rocks.
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