For those not in the know this activity requires a jump from a height into water. However over the last 5 years the RNLI have attended 139 incidents involving tombstoning that have gone wrong.

12 of them had a fatal ending.

Tombstoning or jumping from height into the sea

Tombstoning is a high-risk activity, which involves jumping or diving from a height into water. It can be dangerous because:

* Water depth alters with the tide
* The water may be shallower than it seems
* Submerged objects like rocks may not be visible
* They can cause serious injury if you jump onto them
* The shock of cold water may make it difficult to swim
* Strong currents can rapidly sweep people away.

However, for those who wish to participate in tombstoning, taking into account the following advice beforehand can reduce the risks:

* Check for hazards in the water. Rocks or submerged objects under the sea may not be visible through the surface
* Check the depth of the water. Remember tides can rise or fall very quickly, it may start off deep enough but can quickly become shallower
* As a rule of thumb, a jump of ten metres requires a depth of at least five metres.
* Never jump while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or peer pressure
* Consider the risk to others. Conditions can change rapidly so remember young people could be watching and attempt to mimic the activity
* Check for access, it may be impossible to get out of the water

"Its great that large organisations like o2 are here to support local charity groups including Scouts. We are a charity all about young people and developing them as individuals, although the money is not being directly spent on the unit it will enable us deliver a varied program at diverse locations with enhanced method of transport"

Gizmo aka Kevin C AESL Bournemouth Avon Explorers