Taking a selfie has proved to be more deadly than being attacked by a shark in 2015, according to new figures.
But while the obsession with selfies shows no sign of dying out, here's a look at few places in France where it might be safer to just keep your phone in your pocket.
1. The Tour de France
Clearly way out there in front is the Tour de France. This year’s race saw numerous close scrapes between selfie hunters and cyclists and the problem really began back in 2014 when there were several incidents. And it's not just cyclists you should be aware of. Check out the video clip below.
It’s not sure who would come off worse if there was ever a really serious collision, but it feels like it’s only a matter of time before it happens. Best just watch the race or take a selfie from in front of the television.
Standing I the middle of the road with you back turned while 200 cyclists come at you, just to take a selfie. #think #TDF2014
— Tejay van Garderen (@tejay_van) July 6, 2014
2. The Bayonne “bull run”
When the bulls (actually they are cows with horns) are released at the annual Bayonne festival the natural temptation is to get your phone out.
But clearly whenever there are bulls around or even cows then all eyes should be on the beasts and not on the camera button of your phone.
Just check out the video and see how one festival goer came a cropper trying to take a selfie.
3. The cliffs of Etretat
The stunning cliffs above Etretat offer visitors some fantastic photo opportunities, in fact it was described on travel sit as being one of “the most scenic selfie locations in the world”.
But the cliffs, some of which stand over 110 metres high, also offer the chance to dare-devil selfie enthusiasts to get far too close to the edge, as anyone who has visited will have noticed.
In September 2013 one woman died after she slipped and fell 70 metres to the beach below. It is not known whether she was taking a selfie, but it highlights the danger nevertheless.
Selfie sur les Falaises d'Etretat @shuet71 #Jade #Julien pic.twitter.com/232As4soVn
— chloe paquet (@ChloePaquet) March 19, 2014
4. The rough Atlantic coast
Another place that combines stunning beauty with great photo opportunities is France’s Atlantic coast.
The waves, especially when seas are rough or there are storms, often take people by surprise, as the videos below show.
Numerous walkers or bystanders have been swept to their deaths over the years.
If you happen to by by the sea on a rough day then its best just to look after yourself and forget about a selfie.
5. Skiing, anywhere in France
Skiing can be a risky enough sport – you can even get hit by a plane in France – without getting the selfie and stick involved. In February this year one boy is reported to have fallen 500 metres off a cliff in an Alpine resort after a selfie-shot went wrong.
There have also been numerous other incidents reported at mountain resorts around the world. Perhaps it’s best just to buy a go-pro.
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