TikTok Travel Trend Raises Safety Concerns for Holidaymakers
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Roshan Amiri
- . August 15, 2024
- . Update: August 15, 2024 9:07 pm
A new viral trend on TikTok has caught attention of travelers looking for methods to make long-haul flights more enjoyable. Claiming this posture makes flying more comfortable; passengers show recordings of themselves with their seatbelts fastened around their ankles. Although some would consider this to be a great trick, aviation experts and safety analysts are warning about the probable hazards related with this behavior.
Expert Warnings and Safety Risks
Travel experts at Netflights have voiced on this trend, cautioning against the risky behavior promoted in these viral videos. “With millions of views on TikTok, travellers on long- haul flights could be tempted to try this for ultimate comfort,” they said. “But experts strongly advise against this. It can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a severe condition linked with blood clots connected with prolonged periods of immobility, which is rather fatal.”
The reason for the concern is the possibility of significant health risks coming from this unique use of the seatbelt. Often in the legs, DVT is a condition whereby deep vein blood clots form and can be exacerbated by extended sat posture. “Prolonged periods of immobility can lead to slow blood flow in the veins, which increases the risk of developing a blood clot inside a deep vein in the body,” the NHS says. The TikTok trend may limit mobility and create an odd sitting posture, therefore increasing the risk of contracting this condition.
Safety in Storm and Flight
The prospect of turbulence aggravates the safety issues connected with this development. In the case of unexpected turbulence, those who have their seatbelts bucked around their ankles run increased risk of damage. Flight attendants are instructed especially during turbulence to ensure the accurate fastening of seatbelts for passenger safety. Those following this trend could not be firmly fastened in their seats, which could lead to disastrous events.
Variations of Opinion on Social Media
Notwithstanding the warnings of experts, the TikTok movement continues to attract appeal among customers. Many travellers have posted their seatbelt hack stories and expressed thanks for the claimed comfort it provides, just like TikTok user @mimiswardr0be has done. “Thanks to the woman telling me to put the seat belt around your feet. Always grateful, the user mentioned in a video clip.
On the other hand, retired flight attendant @moxeytravels has reacted vehemently against the inclination. She lists the probable hazards and stresses in her movie to explain why visitors should avoid starting this habit. Her views underline the importance of consumers being cautious about odd advice offered online and the requirement of following standard safety procedures.
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General Guideline for Long-Distance Drivers
Many preventative measures are advised by experts to reduce the risk of DVT development during long-distance flights. While seated, passengers should maintain hydrated, stretch and extend their ankles, and often stroll about the cabin. These strategies help to improve proper blood flow and help to lower the risks connected with prolonged immobility.
Final Thought
As the debate on the TikTok travel hack continues, travellers should give their safety first attention and heed advice given by aviation experts. Although the appeal of comfort on long flights is obvious, following known safety rules and using care in adopting viral trends will help to assure a safer and more fun travel. Travelers should focus on reasonable actions to maintain their safety while on flight and ignore maybe dangerous advice.
