British holidaymakers are being warned about the dangers of balconies after three reported falls already this year.
Last year, three British nationals died, including a mother of three, after falling or jumping from balconies while on holiday overseas.
Three more holidaymakers were seriously injured.
ABTA and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) are renewing their campaign to warn Brits of the dangers.
"As we head into the peak summer season, we are again urging holidaymakers to think about the potential risks of balconies," said Nikki White, ABTA’s director of destinations and sustainability.
"We see 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 said many balcony falls involve young people and alcohol.
Earlier this month, a 34-year-old British holidaymaker reportedly jumped from his balcony into the hotel swimming pool and remains in a critical condition after suffering a serious spinal cord injury.
Will Middleton, FCO consular director for Southern Europe, said: "We have already seen a number of very serious injuries caused by balcony falls this summer.
"We really do urge people to avoid taking risks around balconies, particularly if you have been drinking."
ABTA and the FCO have put together the following tips 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.
