Contents
Why Train a Wild Camel?
As perplexing as it might seem to train a wild camel, the benefits that come with it are abundant. There are two primary reasons for training wild camels: conservation and recreation. With the appropriate training techniques and a good understanding of camel behavior, it is possible to tame and train these majestic creatures. However, patience, consistency, and safety measures must be emphasized throughout the process. Before we dive into the training techniques, it’s essential to understand camel behavior and their body language. To learn about the wild camel training challenges, common mistakes, successful training experiences, and tips, check out our related articles.
Conservation
Conservation of wild camels is one of the key reasons why people train them. The wild Bactrian camel, also known as the “last wild camel,” is critically endangered, with fewer than 1000 individuals remaining in the wild. By training and domesticating wild camels, people are also preserving this rare species for future generations.
Training a wild camel also allows for closer monitoring of their health and behavior, which can contribute to conservation efforts. Through this monitoring, researchers can gather data and learn more about the wild camel’s diet and habitat, which can aid in developing conservation strategies.
In addition to conservation, people also train wild camels for recreational purposes. These animals are fascinating and unique creatures, and building a relationship with a wild camel can be a rewarding experience. With proper training, wild camels can be ridden, used for pack transportation, or even participate in camel racing.
However, it is crucial to keep in mind the challenges and risks involved in wild camel training. A solid understanding of their behavior and body language is critical, as training can be dangerous without the proper knowledge. For more information on wild camel training challenges and safety tips, see our article on Wild Camel Training Tips.
Recreation
Recreation: Besides conservation, wild camel training can also be for recreational purposes. Camel riding and racing are becoming popular tourist attractions in many parts of the world, including the Middle East and Central Asia. The experience of riding a camel can be exhilarating and unique, allowing you to connect with nature and the traditional cultures of the areas where camels are commonly found.
However, it’s important to note that training a wild camel for recreational purposes requires a lot of patience, consistency, and proper techniques. Rushing the training process or using aggressive methods can cause harm to the camel and put the handler in danger. Training wild camels involves understanding their behaviors, body language, and unique characteristics.
Before engaging in any recreational activity with a trained camel, it’s essential to ensure that the camel is healthy, well-fed, and properly cared for. This includes proper diet and nutrition, shelter, and habitat. Additionally, it’s vital to maintain a positive and respectful relationship with the camel even during recreational activities.
Training wild camels for recreation can be a rewarding experience, but it requires a lot of work and patience. Understanding the camel’s behavior and body language, using effective taming methods, and avoiding mistakes in the training process are crucial for success. With proper training and care, the trained camel can provide unforgettable experiences for both the handler and the riders.
Understanding Camels
The fascinating and majestic nature of wild camels has long been a source of intrigue and admiration for people around the world. Before embarking on the journey of training a wild camel, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of their behavior patterns, physical abilities, and body language. It is only with such knowledge that you can begin to build a strong foundation of trust and respect with the camel. In this section, we will delve into the intricacies of the wild camel’s behavior and body language, which are essential for successful camel training experiences. For more information on wild camel behavior, please see our previous article.
Camel Behaviour
Camels are majestic creatures that are native to the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia. To train a wild camel successfully, it is crucial to understand its behavior, which can be quite different from domesticated camels. In this section, we will take a more in-depth look at how wild camels behave.
To begin with, it is essential to know that wild camels are highly social animals that live in groups known as herds. Typically, a herd consists of ten to thirty camels and is led by a dominant male, known as a bull. The rest of the herd is made up of females and their young, who stay with their mothers for several years.
Communication: Camels communicate with each other in several ways, but their primary mode of communication is through body language. They use a combination of postures, movements, and vocalizations to convey their emotions and intentions to other camels.
Aggression: Camels can be aggressive creatures, especially during the breeding season when males compete for dominance. Bulls often become highly territorial and will fight each other to compete for females. To avoid aggression, it is crucial to avoid getting too close to a wild camel during breeding season.
Territorial Behavior: Wild camels are highly territorial animals and are known to defend their territory aggressively. They mark their territory by urinating on bushes, rocks or any other object. They also use their body language to display territorial behavior.
Hierarchy: Within a herd, there is often a defined social hierarchy with the bull at the top. Other males will compete for the dominant position, but the ultimate decision lies with the bull. This hierarchy is also seen in females, with mature females being higher ranked than younger females.
Behavior around humans: Wild camels are known to be wary of humans and will often avoid contact. In general, they will not attack humans unless provoked. However, if provoked, they can become highly aggressive, and it is crucial to be careful when approaching a wild camel.
Understanding the behavior of wild camels is crucial to developing successful training techniques. By understanding their communication, aggression, territorial behavior, hierarchy, and behavior around humans, trainers can create a safe and effective training environment. To learn more about successful camel training experiences, please visit successful camel training experiences or read more about the importance of consistency and patience in wild camel training.
The Camel’s Body
Understanding the body of a wild camel is crucial for successful training. Camels have a unique body structure that adapts to their harsh environment. Here are some key features to keep in mind when working with wild camels:
- Humps: Camels have two humps on their back, which are actually fatty tissue used for energy storage. These humps shrink and expand as the camel consumes and burns energy. Contrary to popular belief, a camel’s hump does not store water. Instead, camels store water in their bloodstream and other body tissues.
- Legs: A camel’s legs are long and powerful, with thick muscles that enable them to travel long distances over rough terrain. The padded feet provide cushioning and grip, allowing camels to walk on sand without sinking.
- Neck: A camel’s neck is long and flexible, allowing them to reach for food and water without moving their body too much. Keep this in mind when offering food or treats during training.
- Ears: Camels have long, curved ears that can rotate and pick up sounds from all directions. This helps them detect predators and communicate with other camels.
- Tail: A camel’s tail is long and bushy, used for swatting insects and signaling their mood through body language. To learn more about wild camel body language, check out our previous article.
Understanding these physical characteristics can help trainers communicate with wild camels in a way that is safe and effective. It’s also important to remember that each wild camel has its own unique personality and temperament. With patience and respect, trainers can develop a strong bond with these magnificent animals and unlock their full potential through training.
Preparing for Wild Camel Training
Preparing to train a wild camel can be a daunting task, but with the right equipment and knowledge, the process can be much smoother. It’s important to remember that these are wild animals, and must be treated with respect and patience in order to gain their trust. In this section, we will cover the equipment needed for wild camel training and must-know safety tips to ensure your own safety as well as the well-being of the camel. By properly preparing for the training process, you will be setting yourself and the camel up for success.
Equipment Needed
To properly train and handle a wild camel, the right equipment is essential. Here are some of the key items you’ll need for the training process:
- Halter and lead rope: A well-fitting halter and lead rope is necessary for safely leading and controlling the camel during the training process.
- Training stick: A long, flexible training stick can be used to touch and guide the camel without getting too close.
- Whip: A whip can be used to signal commands to the camel from a distance, but should only be used as a last resort and with caution.
- Treats: Using treats as positive reinforcement can help build trust and encourage desired behaviors.
- Protective gear: When working with a wild camel, it’s important to protect yourself from potential kicks or bites. Consider wearing a helmet, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
Having the right equipment is important for not only your safety, but also the safety and eventual success of the camel. Make sure to invest in quality and well-fitting equipment before starting the training process.
For more information on training wild camels, check out our training-wild-camels page.
Must-Know Safety Tips
When preparing to train a wild camel, it is important to prioritize safety. Here are some must-know safety tips to keep in mind:
- Never turn your back on the camel: Camels can be unpredictable, and turning your back on them could result in an attack.
- Use a barrier: When beginning to approach the camel, use a barrier such as a fence or gate to keep yourself safe.
- Wear appropriate gear: This includes gloves, sturdy boots, and clothing that covers your entire body.
- Be aware of body language: Pay attention to the camel’s body language and be aware of any signs of aggression, such as raised hackles or kicking.
- Start slow: When first beginning the training process, take it slow and be patient with the camel. Rushing can lead to accidents and injury.
- Stay in control: Establish a clear sense of control over the camel, using firm and assertive commands.
- Provide adequate space: Camels need space to move around, so make sure to provide a large enough area for training and exercise.
- Have a plan: Before beginning training, have a clear plan in place for what you want to accomplish and how you will accomplish it.
- Know when to call it quits: If at any point you feel unsafe or the camel becomes too aggressive, do not hesitate to stop and seek professional help.
By following these essential safety tips, you can minimize the risk of accidents and injury during wild camel training, ensuring a safe and successful experience for both you and the camel.
Wild Camel Training Techniques
As we move further into the world of wild camel training, it’s essential to take a closer look at the actual techniques involved. These techniques are what separate the successful trainers from others who may struggle to effectively train their camels. In this section, we’ll delve into the step-by-step approach to training a wild camel. From approaching the camel to teaching it commands and even riding it, each stage requires a specific approach to build trust and cooperation between trainer and camel. Let’s explore these techniques together and unlock the secrets to successful wild camel training.
Approaching the Camel
Approaching a wild camel can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques, it can be done safely and with minimum stress to the animal. Here are some steps to follow when approaching a camel:
| Step 1: | Observe the camel from a distance to see how it is behaving. If it is resting or grazing, it may be more relaxed and easier to approach. If it is standing up and looking alert, it may be more skittish and cautious. |
| Step 2: | Approach the camel gradually and calmly. It’s important not to startle it or make any sudden movements. Speak to it in a low, soothing voice and make eye contact to show that you mean no harm. |
| Step 3: | Stop a few meters away from the camel and pause. Let the animal get used to your presence before getting any closer. If the camel appears alarmed or agitated, move away slowly and try again later. |
| Step 4: | Offer the camel some food or a treat, such as a carrot or an apple. This will help to establish a positive association with you and may make it more receptive to further training. |
| Step 5: | Slowly move closer to the camel, taking care not to startle it. If it becomes alarmed or tries to move away, stop and wait until it appears calm again before continuing. |
| Step 6: | Get close enough to the camel to touch it, but do not make any sudden movements. Gently stroke its side or back to help it become accustomed to your touch. |
Remember to always approach a wild camel with caution and respect. These animals are powerful and can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to take the time to build trust and establish a positive relationship with them before attempting to train or ride them.
Building Trust with the Camel
One of the most important steps in wild camel training is building trust with the animal. This requires patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of camel behavior. Here are some tips for building trust with your wild camel:
| Tip | Description |
| 1 | Approach the camel slowly and calmly. |
| 2 | Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that may startle the camel. |
| 3 | Offer the camel treats, such as carrots or apples, to associate you with positive experiences. |
| 4 | Speak to the camel in a soothing tone of voice to help him relax. |
| 5 | Start with simple commands, such as “come” or “stay,” to help the camel understand your intentions. |
| 6 | Avoid aggressive behavior, such as hitting or yelling at the camel, as this will only make him more fearful. |
| 7 | Be consistent in your actions and commands, as camels respond well to routine and predictability. |
Building trust with a wild camel may take some time, depending on the individual animal and his past experiences. However, with patience and persistence, you can establish a strong bond with your camel, which will be invaluable in the training process. Remember to always be gentle and respectful towards the camel, and never rush or force the process.
Taming the Camel
Taming a wild camel is a difficult but rewarding process that requires patience and skill. It is important to establish trust with the camel before attempting to tame it. This involves spending time with the animal, speaking to it in a gentle tone, and offering it food. Once the camel trusts you, it will become easier to approach and work with.
The taming process can be divided into several steps, which are outlined in the table below:
| Step | Description |
| — | — |
| 1. | **Approach the Camel:** Slowly approach the camel while speaking in a calm, reassuring tone. Avoid making any sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the animal. |
| 2. | **Touching the Camel:** Once you are close to the camel, slowly reach out and touch it. Start by patting its neck or shoulder and gradually work your way down to its legs and hooves. If the camel resists, back off and give it some space before trying again. |
| 3. | **Introducing Tack:** Once the camel is comfortable being touched, introduce it to the equipment you will be using for riding. Start with a halter or headcollar and work your way up to a saddle and bridle. |
| 4. | **Leading the Camel:** Once the camel is comfortable wearing a halter or headcollar, begin leading it around. Start in a small, enclosed area and gradually work your way up to larger spaces. Use gentle pressure to guide the camel in the direction you want it to go. |
| 5. | **Mounting the Camel:** Once the camel is comfortable being led, it is time to attempt to mount it. Start by standing on a box or step ladder next to the camel and draping your leg over its back. Gradually work your way up to sitting on the camel’s hump. Use gentle pressure to guide the camel in the direction you want it to go. |
Remember, taming a wild camel is a slow process that requires patience and a gentle touch. Rushing the process or using force can result in injury to both you and the animal. Take your time and always put the camel’s well-being first.
Teaching Commands to the Camel
Once you have built trust and the camel is comfortable with your presence, it’s time to teach them commands. Teaching commands to the camel is crucial for their safety and your own. The commands will help you communicate with the animal and give them direction.
The following table outlines some common commands used in camel training:
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
| Halt | Stop moving |
| Walk on | Begin walking forward |
| Whoa | Stop moving immediately |
| Back up | Walk backwards |
| Turn | Turn left or right |
| Stand | Stay in one spot |
When teaching these commands, it’s important to use consistent hand gestures and vocal cues. Be sure to reward the camel with treats and positive reinforcement when they successfully execute the command. Repetition and patience are key when teaching the camel commands.
It’s also important to note that every camel is different and may respond better to slightly different command cues. Take the time to observe and learn your camel’s individual communication style, and adjust your training accordingly.
By teaching commands to your camel, you can ensure a safer and more cooperative relationship between you and the animal.
Training the Camel for Riding
Once the wild camel has been tamed and commands have been taught, the next step is to train the camel for riding. This can be a challenging task, but with patience and persistence, you can accomplish it. Here are some steps to follow when training a wild camel for riding:
- Introduce the Saddle: First, you will need to introduce the saddle to the camel. Make sure the saddle fits properly and is not too tight or too loose. Place the saddle on the camel’s back and let it get used to the weight.
- Introduce the Rider: Once the camel is comfortable with the saddle, introduce the rider. Make sure the rider is experienced and wears proper safety gear such as a helmet. Begin by having the rider sit on the saddle without any movement.
- Practice Mounting: Once the camel is comfortable with the rider in the saddle, practice mounting the camel. This can take some time, so be patient. Give the camel time to adjust to the different weight distribution.
- Practice Leading: Before attempting to ride the camel, practice leading it with the rider on the saddle. This will help the camel get used to the rider’s weight and movement. Start with short distances and gradually increase the distance.
- Practice Riding: Once the camel is comfortable with the rider on its back, practice riding it. Start with short rides and gradually increase the distance and speed. Make sure to use the commands that the camel has learned during taming.
- Be Patient: Training a wild camel for riding can be a time-consuming process. It is important to be patient and not rush the process. The goal is to build a strong bond with the camel and create a positive experience for both the camel and rider.
Remember, training a wild camel for riding takes time and patience. With the right approach and techniques, you can build a strong bond with your camel and create a positive experience for both you and the animal.
Advanced Wild Camel Training Techniques
As you gain experience in training wild camels, you may find yourself itching to try more advanced techniques, ones that push the limits of what you and your camel are capable of accomplishing together. These techniques can involve complex maneuvers, such as camel lifting or trick training, that require trust and understanding between you and your animal. To successfully execute these techniques, you’ll need to have a deep knowledge of camel behavior and advanced training methods. In this section, we’ll explore some of the more advanced wild camel training techniques available to experienced trainers.
Camel Lifting
Advanced wild camel training techniques not only improve the animal’s general behavior, but also expose them to activities that they do not normally experience in the wild. One of these activities is Camel Lifting.
Camel Lifting involves the use of a specially designed harness to lift the camel’s belly off the ground. This technique is primarily used to help camels develop stronger leg and back muscles, while also improving their balance and coordination.
Before attempting Camel Lifting, it is essential to ensure that the camel is comfortable with being touched and approached by humans. The animal must also be comfortable wearing a harness, which can take some time to adjust to.
Once the animal is ready, the trainer can proceed to lift the belly using the harness. It is advisable to start with light pressure and gradually increase intensity as the camel gets accustomed to the exercise. The lifting motion should be smooth and gentle, to prevent the animal from getting injured.
Camel Lifting can be integrated into a routine workout program, alongside other activities such as riding and trick training. This technique, however, should only be performed by experienced and trained individuals to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both the animal and the trainer.
Below is a table summarizing the key points of Camel Lifting:
| Technique | Purpose | Preparation | Execution | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camel Lifting | Improves leg and back muscles, balance and coordination | Ensure camel is comfortable with being touched and wearing a harness | Start with light pressure and gradually increase intensity, smooth and gentle lifting motion | Performed by experienced and trained individuals, prevent animal injury |
Camel Lifting is a useful technique for improving a wild camel’s physical abilities, but it must be done with caution and care to ensure the animal’s safety.
Trick Training
Trick Training is a fun way to bond with your wild camel and showcase its intelligence and skills. However, trick training should only be attempted after the camel has been fully tamed and trained for riding, as it requires a strong foundation of trust and obedience. Here are some popular tricks to teach your camel:
| Trick | Description |
|---|---|
| Kneel | Train your camel to kneel on command, which can be useful for mounting and dismounting. |
| Bow | Teach your camel to bow its head, which can be a fun trick to show off to friends. |
| Smile | Yes, camels can smile! With patience and rewards, your camel can learn to show off its pearly whites on command. |
| Dance | Show off your camel’s rhythmic moves by teaching it to dance in place. |
| Fetch | Believe it or not, camels can be trained to retrieve objects and bring them back to you. |
Remember, trick training should always be done with positive reinforcement and never with force or punishment. Make sure to give your camel breaks between training sessions and only train for short periods of time. With patience and consistency, your wild camel can become a talented trickster!
Caring for your Camel
Taking care of a camel is an essential aspect of owning one. These unique creatures need proper attention, nourishment, and care to maintain their health, happiness, and longevity. As camel owners, it’s crucial to understand the dietary and habitat requirements of your beloved animals. Let’s delve into the details of how to care for your camel and ensure their well-being.
Diet and Nutrition
When it comes to caring for your camel, diet and nutrition is an essential aspect that should never be overlooked. Camels are known to be able to endure long periods of time without food, but they still require a balanced diet to maintain their overall health and wellbeing. Here are some important factors to consider when it comes to diet and nutrition:
1. Foraging: In their natural habitats, camels are known to forage for their food. Hence, providing them with access to fresh vegetation is important in a captive setting. Access to grazing areas such as pastures or fields rich in greenery must be ensured. It is essential to make sure that they have access to the right types and quantities of food.
2. Fiber-rich foods: Camels are known to consume a lot of roughages, such as grasses, hays, and other fiber-rich foods, which aid in digestion. Providing them with fresh hay and other plant materials is essential for their gut health.
3. Water: Access to clean and fresh water is crucial for camels. They can drink up to 100 liters of water in one sitting, and can survive without water for extended periods, making it essential to provide them with regular hydration.
4. Supplements: In certain cases, dietary supplements can be given to camels, such as vitamin and mineral supplements, to ensure that they are getting all the essential nutrients they need.
5. Health checks: Regular health checks and evaluations can be conducted by a qualified veterinarian to ensure that camels are getting adequate nutrition and are in good health. A balanced diet is essential to keep them in top shape.
Diet and nutrition is a crucial aspect when it comes to keeping your camel healthy and happy. Making sure they have access to clean water, fiber-rich foods, and supplements when necessary, and ensuring they receive regular health check-ups are all important steps in caring for your camel.
Shelter and Habitat
Camels are hardy animals that are capable of adapting to various environments, but it is still important to provide them with adequate shelter and habitat to ensure their well-being. Here are some important points to keep in mind when caring for your camel’s shelter and habitat:
- Location: Camels prefer to live in open spaces with access to shade and water. When selecting the location for your camel, make sure that the area is not prone to flooding and is free from potential hazards like poisonous plants and sharp rocks.
- Shelter: Camels need shelter from extreme weather conditions such as rain, wind, and sun. Provide your camel with a simple shelter that can protect them from the elements. It can be as simple as a lean-to or a covered area with shade cloth or canvas on a frame.
- Bedding: Camels need a dry, comfortable place to sleep. Provide them with a soft layer of hay or straw to sleep on, and make sure to replace it regularly to maintain cleanliness and prevent the buildup of ammonia from urination.
- Water: Camels need access to fresh water at all times. Provide your camel with a constant supply of clean water, either through buckets, automatic waterers, or a natural water source like a pond or stream.
- Enclosures: Camels need a secure enclosure to keep them safe from predators and other potential dangers. Fencing should be sturdy and at least six feet tall, with no openings that could allow your camel to escape. Additionally, provide your camel with enough space to move around and exercise.
- Cleanliness: Camels are clean animals, and their environment should be kept clean as well. Regularly clean out their shelter and bedding, and ensure that their water supply is free from contaminants.
By providing your camel with appropriate shelter and habitat, you can ensure that they live a happy and healthy life. Remember to regularly assess their living conditions to make sure that they are meeting your camel’s needs.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of our journey into the fascinating world of wild camel training techniques, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe and wonder at these magnificent creatures. From understanding their behaviour and body language to building a deep bond of trust, we’ve explored the essential steps needed to prepare for and execute successful camel training. We’ve even delved into advanced techniques such as camel lifting and trick training. But what lies ahead for you and your newly trained camel? Let’s wrap up with some final thoughts on caring for your camel and the joy of a life filled with these incredible animals.
Wrapping Up
As we conclude our discussion on unlocking the secrets of wild camel training techniques, it’s important to remember that these majestic creatures require patience, understanding, and gentle handling at all times. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
| 1. Building trust with your camel is critical. This involves approaching them slowly and steadily, offering them food, and avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that may spook them. |
| 2. Taming your camel takes time and dedication. You’ll need to gradually introduce them to human touch and handling, and reward them for good behavior with treats and praise. |
| 3. Teaching commands to your camel can be a challenge, but consistency is key. Use gentle pressure and release techniques, and always reward them for correct responses. |
| 4. Training your camel for riding requires patience and perseverance. Start with a saddle pad and gradually work your way up to a full saddle, always being aware of your camel’s comfort level and body language. |
| 5. Advanced training techniques such as camel lifting and trick training should be approached with caution and supervision. These techniques require a high level of trust and cooperation between you and your camel. |
| 6. Caring for your camel involves providing them with a balanced diet, a clean and safe living environment, and regular veterinary care. This will help ensure their health and well-being for years to come. |
Remember, the process of training a wild camel can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it takes time, effort, and respect for the animal’s unique nature. By following these training techniques and caring for your camel properly, you’ll be able to build a strong and fulfilling bond with your animal that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1?
How long does it usually take to train a wild camel?
Answer
It can take several months to fully train a wild camel, as it requires building trust and developing a strong relationship with the animal.
Question 2?
What equipment is needed for wild camel training?
Answer
Some essential equipment includes a lead rope, a bridle or halter, a saddle or pack, and treats for positive reinforcement.
Question 3?
Is it dangerous to train a wild camel?
Answer
Wild camels have the potential to be dangerous if not approached or handled properly, making it important to have proper training and safety precautions in place.
Question 4?
How do wild camels behave differently from domesticated camels?
Answer
Wild camels are more skittish and cautious around humans, as they have not been exposed to human interaction or training.
Question 5?
What are the benefits of camel lifting as an advanced training technique?
Answer
Camel lifting can help develop trust and strengthening bonds between the camel and trainer, as well as improving the camel’s overall strength and endurance.
Question 6?
Is it possible to train a wild camel to pull a cart or plow?
Answer
Yes, with proper training and conditioning, wild camels can be trained to pull carts or plow fields, although it requires patience and a skilled trainer.
Question 7?
What kind of tricks can a trained camel perform?
Answer
Trained camels can learn to bow, kneel, shake hands, or even play soccer, depending on the trainer’s goals and the camel’s abilities.
Question 8?
What should a wild camel’s diet consist of?
Answer
A wild camel’s diet should consist of a variety of vegetation, including grasses, leaves, and seeds, as well as access to fresh water.
Question 9?
What are some potential health issues that can occur in a wild camel?
Answer
Obesity, arthritis, and dental problems are all common health issues that can occur in a trained or domesticated camel, making it important to provide proper diet and care.
Question 10?
What steps should be taken to ensure the safety of both the camel and the trainer during training?
Answer
It is essential to have proper safety precautions in place, such as wearing proper footwear and clothing, using proper equipment, and never turning your back on a wild camel. It is also important to have access to medical attention in case of an emergency.
