Taking pictures to chronicle your life and adventures is a great way to create cherished memories. “Selfies” have become a popular way to include yourself in a picture whether on your own or with friends or family members. While many selfies are harmless and result in memorable pictures, it has become more and more common for people to act irresponsibly, placing themselves or others in harm’s way. Please keep these tips in mind when considering your next selfie.
- Never take a selfie while driving—even if you’re stuck in traffic or stopped at a red light. Taking a selfie is considered to be a form of distracted driving that can easily result in an accident.
- Stay a safe distance away from cliffs, mountain edges, roof tops, and other high places from where you could fall. People have been known to slip or back up too close to the edge, resulting in serious injuries or even death.
- Enjoy wild animals from afar and don’t turn your back on one to take a picture with it. There are many accounts of animal attacks from selfies that invade their personal space.
- Watch out for planes, trains and automobiles. If you find a scenic spot for a selfie, make sure you’re at a safe distance from vehicles that could quickly approach while your back is turned. Also, be sure to avoid blocking traffic.
- Don’t take selfies while operating dangerous equipment. The equipment should have your complete focus.
- Be aware of your surroundings—watch the weather, avoid electrical wiring or faulty fences and avoid dangerous heights.
- Don’t underestimate the power of water. Stopping for a selfie near a flood zone, leaning too far into a waterfall or fast-moving body of water, or even getting too close to powerful waves could easily result in being swept away.
- Avoid risking the safety of others—don’t pressure someone to participate in or make them be part of a risky selfie.
- Click with care—don’t take a selfie with someone who doesn’t know they’re being photographed, especially if the person is a stranger.
When snapping selfies, always use your best judgment!
