Principles for minimising risk during your exploration

 

Urban exploration, also known as urbex, involves exploring abandoned buildings or unused urban structures. However, this activity can be dangerous and it is important to be aware of the potential risks and the rules to follow. Potential hazards include falls, injuries from decaying objects and potential illness from building contamination. It is also important to comply with existing laws and regulations, such as those relating to private property and building safety. To minimise the risks, it is advisable to learn about the areas to be explored, to carry appropriate safety equipment and to follow basic safety rules when exploring.

 

The potential dangers of urban exploration

Urbex may sound exciting and intriguing, but it also carries many potential risks. First of all, there is an obvious legal risk. Most abandoned buildings or private places are not accessible to the public, and there are legal and financial repercussions for illegal entry. It is important to check local laws before venturing into an abandoned building.

Secondly, there is a physical risk. Abandoned buildings can be in poor condition, with rickety stairs, rotting floors and roofs that threaten to collapse. There are also risks of fire, flooding and other natural hazards. It is important to be aware of these risks and to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.

Finally, there is a risk of getting lost. Abandoned buildings can be large and labyrinthine, and it is easy to find yourself in a situation where you do not know how to get out like in the Maginot Line. It is therefore important to be well prepared and to leave information about where you are going and when you plan to return. You could also choose to be accompanied by an experienced explorer or guide.  It is also important to carry a map or GPS, and to mark your way with chalk or tape to orient yourself.

Laws and rules related to urban exploration

Most abandoned buildings or private places are not accessible to the public, and unauthorised entry may have legal and financial consequences. It is therefore important to check local laws before venturing into an abandoned building and to seek permission if necessary.

It is important to respect the environment and cultural property. Abandoned buildings may contain protected animal or plant species, archaeological or historical treasures and it is important not to disturb or damage them. It is also important not to leave any trace, not to degrade the place and not to bring back objects.

Finally, safety should be your first priority. Abandoned buildings can be in poor condition, with rickety stairs, rotting floors and roofs that threaten to collapse. There are also risks of fire, flooding and other natural hazards. Be aware of these risks and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.

How to minimise the risks

Be prepared by learning about the places you plan to explore. The difference between a good exploration and an optimised exploration is your preparation beforehand. Check the surronding on Google maps for example. Check weather conditions. More than one light is a good idea if you go on a dark place.

Think twice about what you bring. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, carry a torch, map or GPS, compass, mobile phone and first aid kit. It is also important to have a back-up plan in case of an emergency.

You might want to surround yourself with competent people if the place is very risky or if you are a beginner. You can also leave information about where you are going and when you plan to return. Often these are not very useful precautions, but in some cases they can be the difference between an exploration that ends badly and one that ends well.

Urban exploration can be see by explorers like a big adventure game! But it is important to follow the rules and not to be well prepared. Check local laws before embarking on an adventure, and ask permission if necessary. Preserve these places for future generations by not damaging them.