A photo of a man just inches from the edge of a Gold Coast skyscraper has sparked an urgent warning against “balcony jumping” at Schoolies celebrations.
It is understood the young man was captured casually walking barefoot along the ledge several stories above the ground at Surfers Plaza Resort.
As the final week of end-of-school celebrations draws to a close in Queensland, police are urging young people to avoid walking over outside balcony barriers, especially when alcohol is involved.
‘Look, there are barriers on balconies for a reason. It’s to keep you safe,” Queensland Police Superintendent Peter Miles told reporters on Monday.
He said balcony jumping can be especially dangerous if a person is intoxicated.
“If you have alcohol or drugs on board, you are really playing with fire and that will end tragically,” the superintendent said. Miles said.
«There are not many people who fall from a seven, eight or nine story building and survive. These people’s friends tell them that it is not a good idea for them to go out on the balcony.
‘It’s a recipe for disaster. So really think about the actions you are about to take.”
This image of a man jumping from a balcony has led authorities to issue a warning.
Schoolies’ official social media pages also warn against balcony jumping, warning that school leavers could be evicted or fined by their hotel.
‘It is dangerous and could cause serious injury or even death. “Don’t let your partner make a deadly mistake,” the post says.
‘Be smart. Be safe. Take care of your colleagues.
Safe schools website He warned that there will be “zero tolerance for schoolchildren who behave irresponsibly on the balconies.”
“Balconies can become especially dangerous after drinking alcohol or using drugs,” the website states.
After the first week of Schoolies, no major incidents were reported to the police.
Superintendent Miles gave the teenagers an ‘A+’ for the first week and police made 93 arrests, only a third of which involved school leavers.
Paramedics treated about 350 people and 50 were taken to hospitals.