Chris AshtonSelfie sticks have spread like wildfire across the world. Your have one, your aunt has one, even US President Barack Obama has one… but are they dangerous? Maybe.
The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra has just announced a ban on the much maligned selfie stick, claiming it necessary for the safety of gallery patrons and art works. The announcement follows similar bans by the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art and the National Portrait Gallery of Victoria.
Is it the selfie stick itself that is the problem here or the person using it?
Having travelled pretty extensively, my money is on the user. The number of times I’ve seen people wielding their extendable stick with no regard for others around them is astounding. You’d think that people would realise that they’re about to whack someone, yet they remain oblivious.
I think the ban is worthwhile in enclosed spaces such as museums and art galleries, but it would be almost impossible to implement it in outdoor areas.
What do you think of the ban?
