Posted by Jock on October 07, 2005 at 14:50:59 from 84.69.115.112 user Jock.
In Reply to: Re: Mine exploration - checklist posted by Ian E-N on October 07, 2005 at 12:22:38:
"Party leaders should be aware of the least able members of the party and should always consider that they may get tired or cold more quickly; never be afraid to turn back for reasons of safety.
I found it helpful, a couple of weeks before the proposed exploration, to take the group to the pub and agree a few basics. For example, that everyone had the power of veto. If we reached a tricky place where any member of the party (including, and especially, the least experienced) had any doubts about continuing we all went back. The chap who regarded us all as dotty was made safety officer and stayed outside.
The great thing about this arrangement was that everybody felt responsible for everyone else. If someone said "I don't like the look of that pit prop", we didn't treat him as if he was scared (though he might have been) but said, "Fair enough, we go back." It was a great way of team building.
If someone is dotty enough to attempt solo exploration, the only advice I can give is Listen to your inner voice.