A young boy has been injured after the inflatable Zorb ball he was inside was "swept into the air" due to a strong gust of wind. This shocking incident occurred on June 4 at the Southport Food and Drink Festival, located near Liverpool in the northwest of the U.K. The boy, only 9 years old, found himself airborne when the wind lifted the ball, ultimately causing a perilous fall.
The Zorb ball, designed for fun and adventure, became a source of danger as it was flung into the air with the boy inside. Witnesses reported that the ball popped upon impact with the ground, leaving the young child in distress. The event highlights the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities, especially during windy conditions, reminding families to be cautious.
"It was quite breezy, then all of a sudden, there was a gust of wind. It [the inflatable ball] went over the trees, and we thought it was a balloon at first," one eyewitness told local newspaper the Liverpool Echo. Eyewitness accounts reveal the panic and concern of onlookers who rushed to help the boy after the incident.
Another witness explained, "The inflatable Zorb took off from the water pool with the boy inside. The Zorb then landed on a wheelie bin, the Zorb popped on impact, leaving the boy on the ground." The rapid response from nearby security and medical personnel was crucial in addressing the situation swiftly.
As onlookers rushed to assist, the public address system made announcements for security and St John's ambulance service to attend. They arrived on the scene within moments, demonstrating professionalism and calmness during a chaotic event. The air ambulance also circled overhead, ready to assist if needed, showcasing the urgency of the situation.
The fall height was reported to be between 50 and 65 feet, although the exact measurement remains unconfirmed. The North West Ambulance Service stated that the boy suffered serious injuries; however, local police later clarified that they were not life-threatening. This information offers a glimmer of hope amid a distressing event for the family and community.
Moreover, Zorb balls have been associated with injuries in the past. For instance, in 2013, a tragic incident occurred when a man was killed after his ball rolled into a ravine in the Caucasus Mountains. Such incidents underline the importance of safety precautions while engaging in adventurous activities.
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