## How Many People Have Died from Bungee Jumping?
Bungee jumping is an extreme sport in which a person jumps from a tall structure while attached to a large elastic cord. The cord is designed to slow the person’s fall and then rebound them back up towards the structure. Bungee jumping is a popular tourist activity, and there are bungee jumping sites all over the world.
### How Safe is Bungee Jumping?
Bungee jumping is generally considered to be a safe activity. However, there have been a number of fatalities associated with the sport. According to the Association of British Bungee Jump Operators, there have been 13 deaths in the UK since bungee jumping began in 1990. The majority of these deaths were caused by human error, such as equipment failure or improper supervision.
### What are the Risks of Bungee Jumping?
The risks of bungee jumping include:
* **Equipment failure:** The bungee cord or other equipment could fail, causing the person to fall to the ground.
* **Human error:** The person operating the jump or the person jumping could make a mistake, such as not attaching the cord properly or jumping off the platform too early.
* **Medical conditions:** People with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems or epilepsy, should not bungee jump.
* **Alcohol and drugs:** Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment and increase the risk of an accident.
### How to Stay Safe When Bungee Jumping
There are a number of things you can do to stay safe when bungee jumping:
* **Choose a reputable operator.** Make sure the operator is experienced and has a good safety record.
* **Get a medical checkup.** Make sure you are healthy enough to bungee jump.
* **Follow the operator’s instructions carefully.** This includes wearing the proper safety gear and listening to the operator’s commands.
* **Don’t jump if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.**
* **Be aware of the risks.** Make sure you understand the risks of bungee jumping before you decide to jump.
### Conclusion
Bungee jumping is a safe activity when it is done properly. However, there are a number of risks associated with the sport. By choosing a reputable operator, getting a medical checkup, following the operator’s instructions carefully, and being aware of the risks, you can help to ensure your safety when bungee jumping.
## Additional Information
* The world’s highest bungee jump is located at the Verzasca Dam in Switzerland. The jump is 220 meters (720 feet) high.
* The world’s longest bungee jump is located at the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado. The jump is 321 meters (1,053 feet) high.
* Bungee jumping has been featured in a number of movies and TV shows, including “The Simpsons,” “Friends,” and “Mission: Impossible.