If you are in a particularly rough or remote area, plan to be out by dark or have camping gear and food and water with you. Remember, if the road looked rough or had some steep drop-offs on the way in, think what it would be like in the dark. Many old quarries are flooded. Be extremely careful around them. It is difficult to tell how deep the water may be, and the walls are often too steep to climb if you should fall in.
Tailings piles around old mines are often very slippery and unstable.
You could slide a long way. Even if you should take such a slide and not be hurt, think about the climb back up. Finally, although it seems obvious, wear proper footwear. Desert Safety Probably the most important safety rule for the desert explorer is to go in pairs or groups. If you have to go alone, let someone know your destination and expected time of return.