[Dean's World] Trudy W. Schuett: Abandoned Mines a Common Hazard

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Posted by Trudy W. Schuett:
Abandoned Mines a Common Hazard
http://www.deanesmay.com/posts/1188830218.shtml


   Yep, I'm getting in my online time while I can!

   Today's story of the girls who fell down a mine shaft in rural Arizona
   is a distressing reminder of the hazards you can encounter in the
   desert.

   This time of year, the warnings are usually about the heat, and of
   course if you're going to be anywhere in the desert, things like
   rattlesnakes are things to consider if you're hiking, camping, or
   off-roading. Right now it's also dove hunting season, which brings
   thousands of out-state visitors to possibly unfamiliar territory in
   AZ.

   According to [1]this AZ `Public story, there are 100,000 abandoned
   mines in Arizona, and when they're located well away from towns or
   popular tourist areas, they may be nothing more than an open hole in
   the ground. It's always a good idea to be aware of these mines and
   find out their locations if possible, before you head out to the
   boonies.

   Local authorities, such as county sheriff's offices, park rangers, or
   Bureau of Land Management offices can all provide some information on
   the best-known locations, but there are still many that even locals
   may not be familiar with.

   So in addition to your sunscreen and extra water, take along the
   knowledge that it's important to pay attention to your surroundings
   and proceed with caution. If you see any kind of unfamiliar structure,
   or old rusty, equipment obviously abandoned, it's probably best to
   steer clear, because you can't know the exact location of the
   mineshaft, if any.

   We've lived in Yuma County for 20 years, and we've encountered
   mineshafts in our travels that looked like nothing more than a pile of
   firewood. So keep your kids and your pets close at all times, and make
   sure older children have been advised of the dangers.

References

   1. http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/0903mine0903.html