Inspired by a topic thread on the geocaching.com forums I wrote up a quick FTF Code of Honor, FTF etiquette whatever you want to call it.
1. If two or more geocachers arrive at the GZ at the same time then out of respect the FTF should be shared. Regardless of who spots the cache first.
2. To claim FTF the cache must be found and signed by a geocacher after the cache is published
2.1 Beta-Testers or anyone given coordinates or information before a cache is published cannot get the FTF. COs providing a Geocacher with information not given on the Geocache Page is also forbidden.
2.2 Exception: A Geocacher or muggle finds the cache inadvertently prior to publication and can claim FTF
2.3 Exception: Event caches or caches placed at events and later published. See Rule 4.
2.4 Exception: An Earthcache may be considered an FTF as soon as:
A. The requirements are met.
B. An online log is posted.
An Earthcache FTF may be revoked by the CO if conditions are not met.
3. No laws or attribute rules set by the CO shall be broken in the pursuit of an FTF. Examples: Running red lights, caching at night when told not to. If any attribute rules are broken by an "FTF hound" then it automatically moves onto the next eligible finder. See Rule 5.
4. Event cache FTFs are left up to the CO
5. Confrontation and debate is to be avoided, do not ask for FTF confirmation from a CO. If you believe you have claim to an FTF for whatever reason, mark it in whatever program you use as such and move on. See Rule 6.
6. FTFs are not an official part of Geocaching, relax and have fun.
Anyone else got anything that should be added?
Nice little summary. I especially liked the exemption for muggles. I tweeted a link to the post. Good job!
ReplyDeleteMaybe that if you have a kajillion FTFs you are required to let someone that doesnt have one a chance to get to the cache first...at least 1 out of 10 published :)
ReplyDeleteNo spouse or family member in the same household can claim FTF on the others caches, weather they have separate premium accounts or not. This is the consensus of belief between my circle of caching friends.
ReplyDeleteThis situation doesn't bother me too much. As long as it doesn't break rule 2.1. A person could just as easily give their geocaching friends information as they could their family. Just have to hope people honour
Deletethe code.
With almost everyone using a smartphone to hunt, a Code of Honor should emphasize logging as soon as possible. Nothing irks me more than finding a cache then finding a signature that hasn't been logged to geocaching.com.
ReplyDelete