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- Write the National
Speleological Society (NSS) to request information about
caving and information about caves and cavers near you.
- Learn about the different types of caves.
- Learn about caving courtesy, caving dos and don'ts, and what
the BSA policy is on cave exploring.
- Read at least one book about caving.
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- Learn the following knots used in caving:
- Endline knots: bowline figure six, figure eight on a bight
- Midline knots: bowline on a bight and butterfly
- Joiner knots: water knot, fisherman, figure eight on bend
- Prusik knot
- Teach these knots to your crew, another crew, a Cub Scout or
Boy Scout group, or another group.
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- Learn about the different types of ropes available for
climbing and caving and explain the uses of each and the
characteristics of each.
- Learn proper climbing rope care. Know and practice proper
coding and storage.
- Know how to keep proper records on climbing rope and how to
inspect it for wear and damage. Know when to retire a rope.
- Using the knowledge acquired above, make a tabletop display or
a presentation for your crew, another crew, a Cub Scout or Boy
Scout group, or another group.
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- Demonstrate that you know how to properly and safely rappel a
distance of at least 30 feet.
- Demonstrate that you know how to ascend a rope using
mechanical ascenders or Prusik or other ascending knots. Ascend
at least 30 feet.
- Know and explain the differences, advantages, and
disadvantages of single rope (SRT) and double rope (DRT) for
rappelling and belaying.
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- Visit a sporting goods store or NSS-affiliated organization or
have them make a presentation to your crew so you can learn
about personal caving gear, including helmets, light sources,
backup lighting sources, clothing, boots, cave packs, etc.
- Find out what the American National Standards Institute
requirements are for helmets.
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- Make a list of what you need in your personal cave pack.
Include your personal first aid kit and cave survival gear.
- Learn what crew equipment is, including a first aid kit,
caving ropes, and ascending equipment.
- Help make a first aid kit for your crew or group and
demonstrate that you can keep it up.
- Demonstrate to your crew, another crew, a Cub Scout or Boy
Scout group, or another group how to construct both a personal
and crew first aid kit.
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- Learn about the many types of cave formations.
- Make a tabletop display or presentation on cave formations and
caving conservation for your crew, another crew, a Cub Scout or
Boy Scout group, or another group. Include practices such as
proper carbide removal; care of walls, ceiling, and formations;
and principles of Leave No Trace.
- Find a cave you would like to visit; get permission to enter it;
make a trip plan including cave location, a list of participants,
expected time in the cave, expected date and time of return, and an
emergency contact; and then go in the cave, led by a qualified
caver.
- From a cave expert, learn about natural and fabricated hazards
such as mudslides, loose rocks, pits, deep water, critters, complex
routes, wooden ladders, and flooding.
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- Using a three-dimensional cave map, learn what the standard
map symbols represent.
- Using the knowledge above, make a tabletop display or
presentation for your crew, another crew, a Cub Scout or Boy
Scout group, or another group.
Cave Safety
Caves can be dangerous if you are not properly trained or equipped.
Here are some cave safety tips:
- Join an experienced group for proper training and safe caving.
- Never go caving alone. At least four
cavers are a minimum.
- Always carry three sources of light.
- Don't attempt caves beyond your ability.
- Use proper gear, including a properly fitted helmet and suitable
clothes.
- Leave word with family or friends about your trip plan, including
cave location and expected return time.
- Always use the safer alternative when you have an option.
�
Materials found at the U. S.
Scouting Service Project, Inc. Website �1997-2000
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