DO NOT ENTER old mines, especially without having the proper equipment.  NEVER enter by yourself!  We use headlamps for light, with several back up flash lights.  We carry a multi-gas sensing meter that measures the oxygen level, as well as methane gas level; however, we do NOT carry rescue breathing equipment.  Bad air is a reality for many old mines - carbon monoxide and other dangerous gases collect in lower levels of many mines, as well as in many isolated pockets of the twists & turns of many mines (and you will NOT be able to smell the bad gas before it overwhelms you).  We carry extra batteries, rescue ropes, first aid kits, and plenty of water.  We also carry a satellite personal locater called a Spot GPS Meter that sends an email w/GPS coordinates via satellite to love-ones before we enter stating our location and that we are OK.  We do it again upon leaving the mine to let them know we’re out and safe; this meter also has the capability of sending a help signal and/or alerting 911 via satellite providing GPS coordinates – of course it doesn’t work within the mine itself.  The BLM strongly advises to not enter these old mines, so if you choose to do so, it is solely at your own risk.  Some mines, like the Bullion mine, have steep & deep drop-offs, as well as difficult-to-see vertical shafts, which could be impossible to get back up out of.  Also, even though you may see extensive use of wood ladders, shoring and support platforms inside old mines, this wood is very old and unstable; much of it is rotted (along with corroded nails & bolts) and WILL NOT support your weight.  So please enjoy these photos but do not try to enter any old mines.