Warnings against bridge jumping   

By The Holland Times Tuesday 20 July 2010, 10:07

The Ministry of Transportation and Water Management, Rijkswaterstaat will be conducting checks on people jumping off of bridges, jetties and quays. Despite risk of death, many people jump from these structures into rivers during the warm weather. 

According to the Ministry, many young people do not realise that bridge jumping can be dangerous. Oftentimes, jumpers do not know that concrete or other structures are standing just beneath the water's surface. Also, the river's bottom can hold other obstacles, such as cars, boat wrecks or bicycles.

Jumping from bridges can be even trickier when a strong current runs under the bridge. In July of last year, a boy form Deventer went missing after jumping from a road bridge. The current of the river dragged the boy under and he lost his life.

Jumping from bridges is prohibited nationwide, and can run a fine of 90 euros.