Taking risks is simply a part of life, people

LIZ Breslin (Weekend Mix, 23.2.19) raised the issue of the ‘‘No Jumping’’ sign at the Albert Town bridge. Apparently jumping off the bridge is not safe, so signs banning jumping (with no legal basis for enforcement) have been erected.

Safe is not a useful concept in this context. Nothing in this life is completely safe. What should be talked about is risk and whether the risk is acceptable.

Wanaka lives on risk and the associated adrenalin. Mountain biking is not safe — talk to the Wanaka Medical Centre. Skiing is not safe — look at the stream of ambulances and helicopters from the skifields and associated ACC claims — but the risks are apparently considered acceptable just as we all accept the risks of driving.

Swimming and rafting in the Clutha is not safe but has risks, especially when mixed with highspeed jet boats, but that mix is accepted.

Before banning this activity which gives pleasure and thrills to so many, any risks associated with jumping from the bridge need to be identified and quantified, and if the risk is then found to be such as to justify action, options for amelioration of risk considered.

As well as the usual kneejerk reaction of bans and warning signs, this could include managing any physical risk such as willows with regular works and inspections, which would of course also reduce risks for other river users. Graham Dickson

Wanaka