Release of Liability
CAUTION: READ AND UNDERSTAND BEFORE SIGNING. THIS MAY AFFECT LEGAL RIGHTS YOU MIGHT HAVE.
WHEREAS, the Tampa Bay Area Grotto, hereinafter referred to as the Grotto, has arranged, is facilitating, or otherwise providing cave training or access to one or more caves you desire to explore. You acknowledge that the Grotto, Grotto members, volunteers, and landowners have made no representations to you as to the condition of the cave or training facility; and
WHEREAS, there may be hazards involved in cave training and exploration, hereinafter referred to as caving, that are hidden or not apparent, and you acknowledge that you are aware of the natural and unnatural hazards that may be encountered. You further acknowledge that you are aware that caving may be a strenuous activity, which could cause or contribute to cause injuries or damages; and
WHEREAS, you have been advised that neither the Grotto, Grotto members, volunteers, nor landowners are aware of all existing or potential conditions that might possibly be or create a hazard while caving or being on the premises surrounding caves. There may well be dangers involved in caving that may or may not be obvious. None of the parties to be released can warn you of every potential hazard but there are hazards that may exist, including but not limited to: deep or rising water, shifting or falling rocks, slippery surfaces, holes in the floor, small crawl ways, mud, insect or animal bites, and any other conditions that are not inherently dangerous, but which could cause injury. By signing this Release and participating in Grotto activities, you assume the risk of these and any other potential hazards. If you have any health conditions, you confirm that you have evaluated whether or not you are physically able to participate. With this knowledge you desire to engage in activities with the Grotto and agree to assume any risks that might be involved in such activities.
NOW THEREFORE IN CONSIDERATION OF THE ABOVE, the undersigned, being fully aware that there may be potential dangers, does hereby forever release, discharge and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Grotto, Grotto members, volunteers, landowners, and any of their heirs or successors, in interest for any and all claims for injury, damages, or even death that could result in any way and with any connection to Grotto activities. The undersigned agrees that this Release is being given in consideration for the landowners permitting the undersigned to enter their property and that the undersigned agrees to assume the risk of any and all injury or death in any way associated with the exploration of caves on the premises. The undersigned acknowledges that there may be hazards associated with caving and with this knowledge the undersigned desires to participate in Grotto activities and expressly, fully, and completely releases all parties referred to herein from any and all claims of any type that may arise from such activities, whether caused by negligence of the aforementioned parties.
WITNESSETH, my hands and seals this 21st day of December, 2024.