East Tenn. expert shares cave exploration tips after Thailand rescue

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) - There are over 10,000 caves in Tennessee, according to a Knoxville caver who says he grew up learning caving, and he now teaches it.

Michael Whidby runs Cherokee Caverns in Knoxville. He's a member of local caving groups, but also was a cave rescuer years before.

When he watched as 12 boys and their soccer coach were rescued from a cave in Thailand, he said he understood the kind of dangers Thai Navy SEALs could be facing.

"If you're carting a litter with somebody in it. You're trying not to destroy the cave. You do the best you can, try not to damage the cave,"

said Whidby.

He says although he doesn't know the specifics, like the temperature or the cave layout, he says knowing local caves and the challenges rescuers face, makes it a challenge.

Whidby recommends taking three sources of light into a cave or when caving, like a flashlight, glow sticks or a head lamp. He says having the right clothes, shoes, and equipment is also crucial, especially in case of an emergency.

Another tip is to tell someone where you're going. Whidby says if someone outside of the cave has a time to expect someone back, when they aren't, it's a signal that something is wrong. He also suggests not caving alone, going with a trained caver or a friend.

Cherokee Caverns is hosting Movies in the Cave Saturday July 14t showing Jurassic Park. Tickets can be purchased online.