Drive to stop balcony falls in resorts
A campaign to prevent balcony accidents in holiday resorts has been launched by ABTA and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office following a ‘spike’ of incidents this year.
There have been 13 accidents where young people – usually between 18 and 35 and often involving alcohol – fell from balconies in holiday resorts this year. Three resulted in death while the others were seriously injured.
In Ibiza and Majorca, there have been nine cases already in 2012 – matching figures for 2011 – despite being only half way through the season.
Insurance is another issue with many uninsured youngsters having to pay out thousands in medical bills and flights back to the UK.
As part of the campaign, young people visiting resorts will be handed leaflets which include the story of Jake Evans, 18, from Liverpool, who narrowly survived a fall from a 7th floor balcony last year after a few too many drinks.
His story can be viewed here on the FCO website.
Paul Abrey, Consul in the Balearics, said: "This year there’s been a particular spike early on in the holiday season with figures already matching last year’s.
"Some people have fallen whilst climbing to a friend’s apartment, others have simply lost their footing after a few too many drinks and a few have deliberately jumped off aiming for the pool below. It should go without saying these practices are extremely dangerous and can cost them their life or leave them permanently disabled."
Diane
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