The adventures of cave exploration can be thrilling. Some caves are horizontal but narrow, requiring you to crawl through; and others are vertical, involving some
climbing.
Nigeria is blessed with so many caves like the Marshall Caves in Bauchi state and the Ogbunike Caves in Anambra state. Cave Exploration is fast becoming a staple on tour itinerary. Cave exploration goes by other names around the world, like
spelunking or
potholing, and can be a great sport.
But being out in mother nature comes with its own risks. So before you go wondering off into that dark, multi-tunneled cave, here are 10 things you need to know to ensure your safety.
Always let someone know where you are going to
If the cave has a name, tell someone now the exact cave you are going into and when they should expect you out. Most caves run underground so you can’t be certain that there will be network to make calls if an emergency occurs. And if the cave is on a private property or within a village, obtain permission from the land owner or village head before venturing in. They could give you directions on safe routes to thread inside the cave. That way, if you delay in returning, someone can alert the authorities on your behalf.
Never go in alone
Always go with a minimum of three people where at least one person is an experienced cave explorer or tour guide. If you run into an unforeseen circumstance, it is good to have people around who can help. For example, if you hurt yourself or someone has a medical emergency, while one person stays with you, the other person can try to find their way out and get help. But since it is best to be within earshot from each other when in a cave, the other two persons can carry any injured person out if the need arises.
Know your physical limit
Learn to recognise and admit fatigue while venturing into a cave because you will need as much energy to get out as you did getting in. If you feel tired during the cave exploration, rest. Drink a lot of water and recharge before going further in. If you think you can’t make it, make your way out of the cave. Caves can be cold so if you start feeling a bit cooler than usual, there is no shame in turning back. Let the slowest walker among you set the pace for the trip so no one gets left behind.
Have the right gear and clothing
Wear a good quality hard hat with a sturdy chin wrap. Make sure you have knee and elbow guards to protect yourself. Wear warm clothing or layer clothes with thick overalls, jackets, poncho or a thick shawl. Don’t wear cotton, go for materials that dry quickly and do not retain water, like clothes predominantly made with nylon.
Be cautious & safety conscious
Avoid caves that are prone to flooding, especially during raining seasons. Cave floors can be slippery if there is a water source nearby and are somewhat uneven to walk carefully. Don’t run, jump or fool around. Avoid any rubble or any part of the cave that looks or seems unstable. Pack extra food supplies and water in your back pack in case there is an emergency and you get stuck in the cave for hours.
Always carry at least three sources of light
Make sure you have a source of light that is water proof (like a carbide lamp) along with other sources, like a candle or a torch. Flash floods are common in caves and they happen pretty quickly so you need to be prepared to see under water too. Make sure you have at least three extra batteries and bulbs with you. Put one on your person and the others in your back pack.
Have a first aid kit hand
Try not to sit still for too long in a cave because shivering is the first symptom of hypothermia. The remedy is to start moving, get active. If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor and follow his advise before caving. If someone gets injured while in a cave, try to keep the person warm to avoid them going into shock. Having the rudimentary basics for a
first aid kit is always important on such trips.
Leave your keys and transport vehicle outside the cave
When you leave any transportation vehicle outside the cave, it signals passers by that someone is in there. If there is a park ranger in the area, they could easily decide to look out for you or take note of potential crisis when your vehicle sits there for too lone. Also, if you end up unconscious due to lack of oxygen when rescued, having your keys in an easy to find spot makes it easier for someone to drive you to receive help.
Check your equipment before going in
Make sure you are familiar with the type of equipment/gear used for cave exploration. Check if the helmet is sturdy, if have a heat and light, a big nylon bag to act as a rain coat if the cave is dripping wet, etc. If you intend to climb inside a cave, practice your rope work. Get a green light for any vertical cave climbing by showing an expert what you can do with your rope and gear.
Don’t litter the cave
Caves make beautiful backdrop for pictures. However, having plastic bottles or plates from lunch packs littering the place can be an eye sore. Endeavor to leave the cave cleaner than you met it. Besides, if the cave floods, it will be hazardous to have the only place where water can flow clogged with waste left behind during previous cave exploration.
Have you ever gone cave exploring? Share your experience.
