What To Know
- The tragedy occurred at the famous Gagry viewpoint in the picturesque region of Abkhazia, a breakaway area of Georgia.
- Samuel Cornell, a risk specialist at the University of New South Wales, emphasizes that “the phenomenon of selfie-related incidents should be considered a public health issue requiring an appropriate response.
Inessa Polenko, a 39-year-old Russian aesthetician, tragically lost her life after falling 52 meters from a cliff while attempting to take a selfie in Georgia.
The circumstances of the accident
The tragedy occurred at the famous Gagry viewpoint in the picturesque region of Abkhazia, a breakaway area of Georgia. Inessa Polenko, originally from Russia, was admiring the breathtaking view of the Black Sea when she decided to capture the moment with a photo. Unfortunately, while seeking the perfect shot, she crossed a safety barrier warning of the cliff’s danger. Witnesses reported that she lost her balance and fell 52 meters, landing on the beach below.
Emergency response
Emergency services were promptly alerted and arrived at the scene within minutes. Inessa was rushed to the hospital, but despite the doctors’ best efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. Her funeral took place in Sochi, a Russian city bordering the Black Sea.
The phenomenon of deadly selfies
This tragic incident highlights the growing danger of selfies taken in risky situations. According to an Australian study, approximately 400 selfie-related deaths have been recorded since 2008. The primary causes of these fatalities are falls and drownings, with young women on vacation being the most affected demographic.
Calls for caution
Public health experts are urging increased awareness of the risks associated with the pursuit of the perfect selfie. They propose creating “no-selfie zones” and displaying safety warnings on social media apps to educate users about potential dangers. Dr. Samuel Cornell, a risk specialist at the University of New South Wales, emphasizes that “the phenomenon of selfie-related incidents should be considered a public health issue requiring an appropriate response.”
Tips for safe selfies
- Respect barriers and safety signs.
- Avoid hazardous areas such as cliffs, rooftops, and cliff edges.
- Refrain from distractions while taking selfies in risky environments.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and potential dangers.
The pursuit of a perfect photo should never compromise personal safety. It is essential to prioritize caution and follow safety guidelines when taking pictures, especially in natural or urban settings that pose risks.
