Ever wonder what’s hiding behind those old doors at the abandoned factory, asylum, or school down the street? Urban Exploration is the hobby of thousands across the world. UrbEx is the act of “exploring” abandoned or off-limits places. Anything from old houses to large historic mental hospitals, sewer systems to rooftops are just a couple of the locations that urban explorers visit. A true explorer never vandalizes or steals from a location. The unofficial motto for UrbEx is “take nothing but photographs, leave only footprints”.
Some people go exploring for the simple curiosity of “what is in those buildings!?” while others do it for the adrenaline of being somewhere that you aren’t supposed to be. Among the most popular locations for explorers are hospitals, schools, factories, churches, and houses. People from all walks of life are into this hobby whether you are young or old, black or white, a student or a police officer, the history and the beauty of these decaying buildings are a thrill for many.
Personally, I explore because of my interest in history, adventure, and photography. Asylums for the insane and the mentally retarded have always been my number one due to the interesting and institutional architecture, old medical equipment left behind, the old patient records, and the underbelly-the tunnels. Exploring has become my biggest hobby and my favorite style of photography.
Though exploring is probably my single favorite thing to do, there are MANY risks involved with it. Most locations are on private, state, or federal property and one can be charged with a number of crimes ranging from simple trespassing, felony breaking & entering (even if you walked through an open door), to various anti-terrorism laws. Simply being on property can be terms to arrest. There are numerous health risks as well. Many old buildings and tunnels have large amounts of asbestos which long term exposure is known to cause the cancer mesothelioma as well as asbestosis, both which are deadly. Some buildings contain large amounts of mold and pigeon feces which causes an ailment known as pigeon lung which is a form of Hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Some buildings are in disrepair and have been abandoned for decades upon decades. For instance, I visit an old missile factory that has been vacant since the late 1940’s that has nearly collapsed. Roofs may fall in, floors may give out, walls can collapse, tunnels can flood, and various other hazards exist. In urban areas there is a threat of gang members and drug addicts lurking inside. Always take the correct precautions if exploring, I always wear a P100 respirator to protect myself against asbestos and other dusts.
Now that you have learned about the basis of Urban Exploring, keep checking for detailed articles about more in depth subjects within as well as articles about my actual explorations. Exploring is a very fun hobby for some but you must be careful and realize many locations present legal and medical risks associated with it.