Last update 1/30/08

The keys to safe caving are threefold: equipment, preparedness, and common sense.

The right tools for the right job - Montgomery Scott

Here are the basic requirements.  Dont go caving without them!
Your main light is absolutely a headlamp, to keep your hands free for climbing and crawling. Dont forget extra batteries and the correct replacement bulb. 

Most cavers recommend carrying two backup lights.  Vader carries at least three, all with extra batteries.  This may seem like overkill, but we wont get caught in the dark without a light.  Ever. 

A helmet is a must.  A good climbing helmet will set you back about a hundred bucks, but there are other ways to go here.  A hardhat works, but CaverOne always found that the small rim on the front of most hard hats obstructed his vision and his head lamp.  The answer: a bicycle helmet.  You can get them cheap and they’re not so bulky.  A heavy stocking cap will protect you somewhat from bumping your head, but there is nothing like a good helmet to protect you if you take a fall.

Caves have a dress code.  As most caves in Colorado are cold and wet, we recommend insulated coveralls, leather or neoprene gloves (like scuba divers wear), and a sturdy pair of waterproof boots.  Wool socks are highly advised, as wool will still insulate you even when wet.   We are almost  always in our coveralls, and have never been overdressed.  Besides, it is better to be too warm than cold and wet.

Since most caves involve crawling through some tight spots, carrying alot of survival gear can get in the way.  A small day pack will sufficiently carry everything you need.  Always carry food and water.  We like granola bars and small Lunchables. We ve tried crackers and Pop-Tarts, but after a couple good squirmways they are pulverized to sawdust. Sandwiches work, as a squished sandwich still retains its nutritional value. CaverOne once took some grief for bringing a small bag of baby carrots as a cave snack, but hell, they were good.   

Stop often on long cave explorations to rest, eat and take on water.  In addition, there are a few things that you will find useful:  a small first aid kit, a short length of rope, and a space blanket. 

Be prepared - Boy Scouts of America

Know what youre getting into.  Do a little research.  OK, youre on this site, so you ARE doing research.  The point is, if you are a beginning caver, dont try and tackle Spanish Cave.  Start small.  Caves R 4 all, but caving is not for everyone.  Try it out in an easy cave, and go from there.  On the Cave Locations page,  We will let you know what caves are for beginners and which ones you can schedule later.

If it worries you or you dont like it, dont do it . -The Joy of Sex

Once you are in a well-selected cave, dressed warmly, with plenty of food, water, and light, use your head.  If you are at the top of a steep descent, debating whether to go down, and you are not sure you ll be able to get back up, DONT GO THERE. Never go caving alone.  Come to a consensus with everyone in your party as to how far and how gonzo you will go.  Dont take needless risks.  We are here to have fun, remember?  Make sure you live to tell the tale.

Always keep track of the way you came in.  Getting turned around in a cave is very easy, even if you have a good map of the cave.  Lose yourself in caving, but dont get lost. 

Take each step carefully.  Stay on the beaten path, so to speak.  Protect yourself from injury by being devoutly cautious.  It is said that in many caves, a broken ankle will probably lead to a fatality.  Cave rescues (not to mention body recoveries) are costly and, well, embarrassing. 

If you or anyone in your party are feeling fatigued, head back toward the entrance.  Youve pushed yourself to your limit, and there is no sense in risking injury.  Return to the cave another day, ready to push farther.  The best part of caving is emerging back on the surface, having conquered a whole other world and having seen some things that most people will never see.

There.  We referenced Star Trek, The Boy Scouts, and The Joy of Sex all on one page. 
Beat that.