Abta has renewed calls for holidaymakers to take care and use overseas hotel balconies safely.
This came as the Foreign & Commonwealth Office updated its travel advice for Spain covering balcony falls and ‘balconing’.
The FCO said: “There have been a number of very serious accidents (some fatal) as a result of falls from balconies.
“Many of these incidents have involved British nationals under the influence of drink or drugs. Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place while you’re under the influence of drink or drugs.
“Some local councils will impose fines to those caught behaving irresponsibly on balconies or practising ‘balconing’.”
There were three balcony falls reported to the FCO earlier this year, resulting in serious injury. However, This represents just a fraction of the total number of incidents.
The travel association said: “Abta sees too many people badly injured or much worse because they’ve tried to climb over, jump or dive from their hotel balcony.
“A moment of thoughtlessness can have a devastating impact, not just on the holidaymaker themselves, but also on their family and friends.”
Abta and the FCO have put together tips for travellers on using balconies safely:
• Never lean over, sit or climb on the balcony wall or railings.
• Don’t try to pass items to someone on another balcony
• Don’t climb from one balcony to another.
• Never stand on balcony furniture.
• Never jump into the pool from your balcony.
• Take extra care on balconies after drinking alcohol as your judgement may be affected.