Makes sure instructors have thorough knowledge of safety practices, equipment use and maintenance, and technique.

Reviews the rules and operating procedures with the girls before each session.

Makes sure the safety rules are written, understood, practiced, and posted at the site.

Secures all equipment in a dry, locked storage area.

Makes sure girls and adults avoid wearing jewelry, especially pierced earrings, looped earrings, bracelets, and necklaces in contact sports or where jewelry may become entangled in equipment.

Makes sure a list of emergency telephone numbers, including those for emergency rescue ser vices and the police, is posted or carried by the adult in charge.

Teaches girls to take shelter away from tall objects in a storm with lightning and thunder. Find the lowest point in an open flat area.. Squat low to the ground on the balls of the feet. Have girls place their hands on their knees with their heads between them. Instruct girls to make themselves the smallest targets possible and to minimize their contact with the ground.

A guide with documented experience in cave exploration accompanies the group into the cave. A guide can also help decide which caves are suitable.

Pre-trip instruction is given by an adult with documented experience indicating knowledge and skill in teaching and/or supervising caving.

Each group has a minimum of five and a maximum of 10 people, including two adults. One adult is an experienced caver.

In wet weather, caves with stream passages are avoided. Some caves can flood.

Each person has:

Sturdy boots with good ankle protection

Gloves

Kneepads (as needed)

Each person has:

A safety helmet that fits properly, with a strong chin strap. For vertical caves, bump helmets may be used. For vertical caves, use safety helmets carrying the Union of International Alpine Association (UIAA) seal, which is located on the inside of the helmet.

Three sources of light. The main light is electric and mounted on the safety helmet. The other two light sources may be flashlights.

Food.

Water.

Trash bag. (Use as a poncho or for dirty equipment after the trip. Cavers keep an empty trash bag in their safety helmet.)

Spare bulbs and batteries.

Obtain guidance from a local chapter of the National Speleological Society to select a cave to explore. Never explore a cave without a guide and written permission from the site owner/operator.

A first-aider is present.

The group leader carries the names and telephone numbers of the local cave rescue unit and rescue squad. These numbers are taped inside the leader’s safety helmet. A second responsible adult carries a backup list.

In the event of serious injury, at least two people stay with the injured person and two others seek help.

Advance arrangements are made for medical emergencies and evacuation procedures.