Police have urged people to be careful around lookouts following a teen’s fall from Lincoln’s Rock, Wentworth Falls last week.
It’s a common sight to see people who have climbed safety fences in the national park to pose for selfies by steep, slippery waterfalls or balancing precariously right at the very edge of cliffs.
“The lookouts and trails provide a host of spectacular view points, however the perfect photo is not worth putting your life at risk for,” said Blue Mountains Police Detective Inspector Brad Element.
“Stay away from cliff edges, and always remain within the fenced areas where they are provided. They are designed to allow you to take in the sights without becoming a casualty.”
Last year the Blue Mountains Police Rescue Squad undertook on average one rescue a month for people who had fallen from a cliff or become stuck.
“Whilst our rescue operators are highly trained, every rescue deployment is also putting them at risk as well. Stay away from cliff edges, make sure you are properly prepared and have supplies and equipment for the outdoors, tell people where you're going and when you will be back, and keep yourself and your family and friends safe at all times so you get home at the end of the day and get to share your photos with them,” Det Insp Element said.
The Blaxland teen was sitting close to the edge of Lincoln’s Rock when he stood up, and probably lost his balance, Det Insp Element said.
