I recently saw some pictures of youth and adults going caving for there first time. As is often the case, they were not properly prepared. I could not see any that carried water, food, batteries, First Aid Kit, much less a pack to put it all in. I see this with almost all the Pay to Cave outfits. But when a Grotto, The Experts, does not introduce newbies properly, what example is being presented. What will these newbies take home with them? What rescues will be needed? Grotto members have to set the best example, not just when they lead a group of newbies but all the time. Especially when they go into popular caves and those that just might be used by newbies. I carry extra packs to hand out to newbies. Often small, not much more than a phone bag, but it is something for their possibles. They then have a truer caver experience on which to build on. Some do complain a little, but most just accept it and do not even question it. As a matter of fact, they tend to ask those with out a pack why they are so unprepared. I do occasionally let them explore a short dead end but most times, they here me say, are you sure you want to be separated from you gear?
Is this wrong or is it correct.
What really sets a bad example is when guides leave their packs at the mouth of the cave. Have you seen this? What do you think?