If you spend much time in the gold fields, you are bound to encounter old abandoned mine shafts from the early gold rush days. Often, these mines contain interesting relics from the past and perhaps some pieces of gold bearing ore. Some outdoor adventure shows, prospecting dvds, and posts by some prospecting forum members attest to the valuables held in old mines.
The possibility of finding an old mining antique or the chance to venture into the unknown may tempt you to explore an abandoned mine shaft. That some of the more prominent individuals in the prospecting community have publicly broadcast their mine exploration activities may lead you to believe it is ok to enter old mine shafts in search of treasures from the past.
Do not be fooled by their inexcusable public displays of stupidity. Entering old mines is not a safe practice even for the more experienced miners. Over the last hundred years, the timbers used to support the tunnels are often too rotted to provide much structural support. Often a mine will include vertical shafts that can be several hundred feet or more in depth. If covered with wood, these vertical shafts can be difficult to see under years of dust build up. One wrong step can send a person to their death.
Another danger present in old mines is the lack of structural support due to improper or rotten support beams. Removing ore samples from the walls or carelessly disturbing support beams can lead to a mine collapse. Even if the tunnel supports are intact and sufficiently strong to support the mine shaft walls, old mines can hold pockets of poisonous gases.
It is also important use caution when exploring areas near old mining areas as some vertical mine shafts may be partially covered with dirt, vegetation and other debris that masks the existence of a shaft. It is best to not step on any large pieces of wood without knowing what is under it as it may be a poorly constructed cover to an old mine shaft.
In my opinion, it is extremely careless for any one of prominence in the prospecting community to promote exploring old mines. It simply is not worth risking ones safety or life over a few trinkets or specimens of ore. Unless, you have the equipment and means to re-open a mine properly, then it is foolish to enter into an unsecured mine. I know this article might ruffle the feathers of some old sourdough prospectors, but I would rather promote safety than read about mine shaft tragedy that could have been avoided.