How to Participate in Urban Exploration

Urban exploration (urbex) has been around for as long as there have been abandoned places to explore. But the urban exploration movement has come into its own as a worldwide subculture and is a popular activity with young adults. Urbexers explore abandoned factories, hospitals, amusements parks, military installations and more. This is almost a full-time hobby for some, and there are several safety factors to consider when exploring abandoned places.

Things You'll Need

• Sturdy hiking boots
• Flashlight
• First-aid kit
• Dust mask
• Cell phone, fully charged

Instructions

Before You Explore

1. Do your homework. The Internet has many urban exploration sites with information and pictures. In addition, many abandoned places have their own Web sites. Read the information and look at the pictures for the place you want to explore. Be sure to check the date on each picture. What was considered a safe place to explore in 2005 may not be as safe in 2009.

2. Know the risks beforehand. Get a tetanus booster. Many abandoned places are filled with broken glass, rusty nails and other debris.

3. Get permission. Some owners of abandoned sites may let you explore if you sign a waiver. Other places---such as the Trans-Allegheny Insane Asylum---provide regular tours. Do not trespass at these abandoned sites. Trespassing can get you arrested, and you can be fined.

When You Explore

1. Do not go alone. Bring someone you know along, and be aware that even if security patrols the grounds, they rarely patrol inside. If you get into trouble or become injured, you need someone inside to help you. There is a lot of information about urbex at online forums, but do not rely on someone you don't know who may offer to take you on a tour. You could be robbed or worse. Dangers exist from more than collapsing structures. Vagrants and vandals are also a real threat.

2. Be cautious. Check flooring, especially through doorways, before you step on it. Shine your flashlight ahead to avoid dangers like holes in the floor or falling debris. Wear a dust mask and do not touch anything that looks like asbestos or black mold.

3. Don't take anything. Sometimes buildings are abandoned in a hurry and not cleaned out very well. There is an urge to "save" the objects left behind. Keep in mind that many objects, especially in hospitals, may be considered biomedical hazards. Some equipment may be "hot"---still radioactive. These are not souvenirs you want to take home.

Tips & Warnings

• Vandalizing an abandoned site may cause it to be demolished prematurely to prevent arson.

• Do not trespass. It is a real possibility that you will be fined, arrested or---if you are exploring in a foreign country---have your visa revoked.

• Asbestos and black mold can cause life-threatening illnesses. Take proper precautions.

References

• Asbestos Exposure
• Mold Exposure
• Urbex Ethics

Resources

• Urbex Photography
• Abandoned Places
• Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum