A new type of water recreational activity called water walking has been ruled a potential drowning and suffocation risk, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Water walking balls are a new attraction at amusement parks, carnivals, sporting events and also can be purchased for home use. The activity involves climbing into a large, clear plastic ball that is inflated with a blower and zipped closed. The occupant then walks or rolls around on water, ice or grass.
Because the ball is airtight, inadequate air supply can result after oxygen is depleted, posing a suffocation risk. Occupants also can be harmed if the ball rolls or falls out of the water or collides with another object, or can drown if a hole forms and the occupant becomes trapped inside on water.
Several states have banned permits for their use in public events due to their injury potential. CPSC advises consumers not to use the balls or allow children to use them.
