Conquer Club

Disney confirms selfie stick ban at theme parks



Disney has banned selfie sticks from its theme parks over safety concerns, the company has confirmed.

The gadgets were already prohibited on rides but now visitors will be asked not to bring them to the parks at all.

A spokeswoman told the BBC: "Handheld extension poles have become a growing safety concern for both our guests and cast."

The ban comes into effect at Disney parks in the United States on Tuesday.

Paris and Hong Kong will follow suit on Wednesday.

The long arm of a selfie stick helps users take a better self-portrait, but there are fears that they could cause injury if somebody was accidentally struck with one during a photo opportunity.

The gadget also poses a safety risk on rides as its long arm can extend far outside the carriages and could come into contact with a ride's mechanism.

A spokesperson for St John Ambulance said the first aid charity had not noticed a surge in selfie stick-related injuries but did offer advice for anybody hurt.

"If you get hit in the head with a selfie stick, sit down and hold a cold compress against the injury," said training officer Clive James.

"Advise the casualty to seek medical help if they develop signs of a worsening head injury - like dizziness or nausea, confusion and loss of memory of events preceding the injury."

KoolBak wrote:Will the geriatric and infirm be required to shelve their canes as well??