Lighthouses of the World Community Wiki
# Getting started
Join our vibrant community of lighthouse enthusiasts! To begin your journey, select a lighthouse category (Active, Disused, Ruin, Minor light) and start documenting lighthouses from the UK, Ireland, and Channel coasts.
# Categories
- **Active:** Currently operational lighthouses that guide maritime traffic.
- **Disused:** Lighthouses no longer in operation but hold historical significance.
- **Ruin:** Remnants of lighthouses that may be in a state of disrepair or abandonment.
- **Minor light:** Smaller lights that may not be as well-known but are essential for local navigation.
# Spotting best practices
- **Good photos:** Ensure your photos are clear and taken from a public viewpoint. Photos should represent the lighthouse accurately.
- **Safety/access:** Always consider safety when accessing lighthouses and respect any local restrictions or guidelines.
- **Duplicates:** Avoid posting multiple entries for the same lighthouse. Each spot should be unique.
- **Descriptions:** When adding a lighthouse spot, include detailed information such as the approximate tower height, year built, heritage listing, and operational status if known.
- **Privacy in photos:** Be mindful of privacy. Photos should not include identifiable individuals, particularly children, unless you have consent.
- **Growing membership:** Encourage new members to join by sharing your experiences and the joy of lighthouse spotting.
# Community etiquette
Respect and kindness are the foundation of our community. Please refer to the SpotterAtlas safeguarding guidance at [SpotterAtlas Safeguarding](https://spotteratlas.com/guides/safeguarding) and the terms of use at [SpotterAtlas Terms](https://spotteratlas.com/terms). Remember to treat fellow members with respect: harassment, hate speech, and threats are not tolerated. Never share personal data without consent and report any concerning content. Maintain privacy in spotting by avoiding photos of private properties or identifiable individuals without permission. Let’s work together to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all lighthouse spotters!