Dear Editor,

Selfie sticks are becoming, slowly, but increasingly popular in our country. This useful product for photography enthusiasts was listed in TIME magazine’s 25 best inventions of 2014. However, the careless use of selfie sticks can cause harm.

Selfie-related injuries and deaths are growing around the world. Last month, a 21-year-old Russian university graduate died after falling from a bridge while she was trying to take a memorable selfie next to Moscow City financial district. It is no surprise that selfie sticks are banned at many venues around the world, including Disneyland and many well-known museums. Regulations are already in place in South Korea, where only registered versions of bluetooth-enabled selfie sticks can be sold. Still, social media users seem to be doing more and more outlandish things so that their photos can stand out.

I was in Western part of the island during the Independence week. It was good to see people taking pictures and having a great time. In trying to take the ultimate selfies, some fellow drivers were driving carelessly with one hand on the steering wheel and the other on their selfie sticks, all while zigzagging at high speeds on crowded roads. I am glad I did not see anyone hurt.

Selfie sticks are great, but if care is not taken, use of these sticks can result in people getting hurt. Take as many pictures as you like, but use your sticks responsibly.

Tashfeen Ahmad

Old Hope Road, St Andrew

mrtashfeen@hotmail.com