One mistake can cost your life: an aquaspeleologist has been exploring underwater caves for 30 years (6 photos)

"Most people look into a cave and see only terrifying darkness. What I see is an unknown world of possibilities," writes Jill Heinert. A resident of Canada has devoted three decades to studying underwater labyrinths.





Jill has dived to depths all over the world - from Egypt to Antarctica

Jill, a director and photographer, admits her job is dangerous and one mistake could cost her her life. Aquaspeleologists often die: unwise choices in the dark, lack of air, injuries. Despite the risk, the underwater caves "make her feel like a kid in a candy store."



She is depicted in a cave in Abaco in the Bahamas

"As a filmmaker and photographer, underwater caves are the ultimate challenge: I create art under stress that pushes my mind and body to the limit. Despite the risks, I feel like a kid in a candy store, working with biologists discovering new species, physicists, tracking climate change, and hydrogeologists studying our limited fresh water supplies. Exploring the planet's underground pathways," Heinert says in Adventuress: Women Exploring the Wild.





"Through training, preparation and safety, I have been involved in research and science for almost 30 years. I will not presumptuously claim that I will never make a fatal mistake or bad choice. Be willing to take risks. Be willing to walk on the edge of possibility. Be courageous and confident in everything you undertake in life."



At the underwater caves of Ginny Springs, Florida

"When I find myself in a tight space and can't see in the murky water, I have to maintain the calm necessary to take the right step. If I'm pinned against a rock, I use logic to figure out how to free myself. Every breath I take must be measured and calm. I have to keep my heart rate low and focus on the next best course of action,” explains the aquaspeleologist. “Uncontrollable emotions will not help me in a dangerous situation. They will only distract me, and I will waste precious air.”



Jill looks into an unusual body of water in Egypt

"When you're striving to conquer a mountain top or explore an unexplored cave, remember that you need to return home safely. Knowing when to turn back is as important as accepting fear."



"Adventuress: Women Exploring the Wild" features 20 women "with an incredible sense of adventure."