Press Release from Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service
County Fire Service warns free-runners to stay safe
Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service is warning youngsters about the dangers of ‘free-running,’ the latest craze sweeping the county.
Young people are using buildings and landmarks around the county to practise their sport and already accidents have occurred.
Free-running, or Parkour as it is known, originated in France and involves running, jumping or performing acrobatic stunts off buildings.
While the practise is an excellent way of exercising and getting young people active, taken out of a controlled environment such as a gym, it can be very dangerous.
Damage can also be caused to the buildings being used.
Last week, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, which is part of Gloucestershire County Council’s Community Safety Directorate, was called to an incident where a teenager had fallen through the roof of a shop in Stroud.
Fortunately the youngster was not seriously injured on this occasion.
But Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service is concerned that more serious accidents could occur.
Terry Standing, Chief Fire Officer, GFRS, said: “While we would always support anything that keeps young people fit and active, free-running on buildings can be very dangerous. “When this kind of activity involves using public buildings as a playground our primary concern is the risk they pose to both themselves and potential rescuers that need to access them if they injure themselves in a unsafe location. “I would urge anyone thinking of taking up this ‘sport’ to think twice about the location they choose and opt for the safer option of the gym or sports hall.”
Cllr Will Windsor-Clive, Gloucestershire County Council, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “This activity is clearly very dangerous and I am extremely worried about these young people getting hurt. “Being active is important and I applaud young people for finding something they are passionate about, but the risks of using public buildings in this way are far too high.
“When taking part in any outdoor pursuits, safety should be the main priority at all times.”
ENDS
11th February 2008
Contact:
Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service 01452 753333
Issued by Lisa Bonnell, Gloucestershire County Council Media Team, 01452 425226
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