Falling Into Tetrapods: 'Impossible to Escape, Cries Muffled'

[Anchor]

Accidents involving people slipping and falling from tetrapods, the concrete structures used as breakwaters along the coast, occur continuously. People often get into accidents while fishing or sightseeing, but once they fall in, it is extremely difficult to escape on their own.

Reporter Jo Jaegeun has the story.

[Reporter]

Rescue workers descend through a narrow gap between tetrapods.

They hoist a fallen angler on a stretcher from the sea-level ground below.

Fortunately, the person's life was spared, but they suffered severe head injuries.

Over the past six years, 198 tetrapod accidents nationwide have resulted in 34 deaths.

The fatality rate stands at 17%, meaning one person loses their life for every six accidents.

We tested the impact of a fall using a mannequin.

It drops instantly to the ground from a height of 4 meters.

Had it been a person, there would be a high probability of losing consciousness or sustaining severe injuries to the head, neck, and waist.

As you can see, beneath the tetrapods, there is nothing to grab with your hands or step on to climb back up.

Due to the slippery surfaces and steep slopes, once you fall in, it is difficult to escape on your own power even if you are conscious.

No matter how loudly you call for help, your voice gets drowned out by the waves, fishing boat engines, and wind, making it hard to carry far.

[Kim Jae-hoon / Inspector, Donghae Maritime Special Rescue Team: When we encounter such situations, despite our extensive training and wearing full equipment, if someone were to fall in alone, we believe it would be extremely difficult for them to climb back up by themselves.]

While access has been prohibited at 20 high-risk tetrapods nationwide, accidents continue to happen even in areas where entry is permitted.

[Lee Jong-wook / Acting Head of the Donghae Regional Coast Guard: Before visiting the sea, please check the weather and sea conditions, and make sure to wear a life jacket in designated areas.]

Especially when weather conditions are poor, such as when there are swells or rain, the risk of accidents increases and rescue operations become even more difficult, making it crucial to stay out.

(Video taken by Kim Dae-chul | Design by Yang Gi-tae | Footage provided by Donghae Regional Coast Guard)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.