The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has this week updated its travel advice for Spain regarding the dangers of balcony falls. It comes after three balcony falls reported to the FCO earlier this year resulted in serious injury.
This represents just a fraction of the total number of incidents, said Abta, the Association of British Travel Agents, which has renewed its call for holidaymakers to take care and use their balconies safely.
"Abta sees too many people badly injured or much worse because they’ve tried to climb over, jump or dive from their hotel balcony. A moment of thoughtlessness can have a devastating impact, not just on the holidaymaker him or herself, but also on family and friends."
The Foreign office advice for Spain says: "There have been a number of very serious accidents (some fatal) as a result of falls from balconies. Many of these incidents have involved British nationals under the influence of drink or drugs.
"Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place while you’re under the influence of drink or drugs."
It also warned that some local authorities in Spain will impose fines on those caught behaving irresponsibly on balconies or practising "balconing".
ABTA and the FCO have put together the following tips on using balconies safely:
- Never lean over, sit or climb on the balcony wall or railings.
- Don’t try to pass items to someone on another balcony.
- Don’t climb from one balcony to another.
- Never stand on balcony furniture.
- Never jump into the pool from your balcony.
- Take extra care on balconies after drinking alcohol as your judgement may be affected.