04/01/2011 // Greensboro, NC, USA // Personal Injury Lawyers News // Nicole Howley

Washington, D.C.— Authorities are warning consumers against participating in a new water-related recreational activity called “water walking” and the “water walking ball,” which has numerous brand or ride names. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that there are several risks associated with the activity like suffocation and drowning.

“An individual climbs into the large, see-through plastic ball; it is inflated with a blower through the zipper opening; and the zipper is closed, making the ball air-tight. The ball, with the person locked inside, then rolls around on a number of surfaces, including water, ice, or grass. The product is most commonly used by children and is used mainly as a ride in amusement parks, carnivals, malls, sporting events and other high-traffic areas. The product is also sold directly to the public for personal use,” reported the CPSC.

Officials warn that the fact that the product has no emergency exit and can only be opened by someone outside of the ball, creates a higher risk of injury or death if the person inside the ball experiences distress. The ball is also airtight, and inadequate air supply could result in oxygen depletion and an accumulation of carbon dioxide.

In addition, the water walking balls have no padding, which can cause impact injuries if the balls collide with each other, fall out of the pool onto concrete or other hard surfaces.

Legal News Reporter: Nicole Howley-Legal news for personal injury lawyers.

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