## How Safe is Bungee Jumping in South Africa?
Bungee jumping is an extreme sport that involves jumping from a high structure with an elastic cord attached to your feet. The cord stretches as you fall, slowing your descent and eventually bringing you to a stop. Bungee jumping is a popular tourist activity in South Africa, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved before you take the plunge.
### Is Bungee Jumping Safe?
Bungee jumping is a relatively safe sport, but there are always some risks involved. The most serious risk is that the cord could break, which could result in serious injury or death. However, this is a very rare occurrence. In fact, there have only been a handful of fatal bungee jumping accidents in the world.
Other risks of bungee jumping include:
* **Back injuries:** The sudden stop at the end of the jump can put stress on your back, which could lead to injury.
* **Neck injuries:** If you do not hold your head properly during the jump, you could injure your neck.
* **Eye injuries:** The wind created by the fall can cause your eyes to dry out, which could lead to irritation or injury.
### 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 company you are jumping with has a good safety record and is certified by the South African Bungee Jumping Association.
* **Get a medical checkup before you jump.** This will ensure that you are healthy enough to participate in the activity.
* **Follow the instructions of the jump master.** The jump master will give you detailed instructions on how to jump safely. Be sure to listen carefully and follow their instructions exactly.
* **Wear appropriate clothing and gear.** Wear comfortable clothing that will not restrict your movement. You will also need to wear a helmet and a harness.
* **Be aware of the risks.** Before you jump, make sure you are aware of the risks involved and that you are comfortable with them.
### Bungee Jumping in South Africa
There are a number of great places to go bungee jumping in South Africa. Some of the most popular locations include:
* **The Bloukrans Bridge:** This is the highest commercial bungee jumping bridge in the world, standing at 216 meters (709 feet) tall.
* **The Victoria Falls Bridge:** This bridge is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, and it offers stunning views of the Victoria Falls.
* **The Orlando Towers:** These towers are located in Soweto, Johannesburg, and they offer bungee jumping from a height of 100 meters (328 feet).
### Conclusion
Bungee jumping is a safe and exciting sport, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved before you take the plunge. By following the safety tips above, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.