Interactive performances featuring mermaids are becoming increasingly popular in aquariums, capturing the attention and affection of audiences. Those playing the role of mermaids must meet physical criteria as well as diving certifications to perform the role. Despite having extensive experience, accidents or risks can still occur during work for these sea maidens. This recently happened at a large aquarium in the Cresta Shopping Centre, located in Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa, causing millions to hold their breath.
Specifically, a young woman named Gabriela Green-Thompson was swimming around the tank to perform. She even dove to the bottom of the tank, waved, and blew kisses to many spectators. The incident happened in a matter of seconds when, while coming up for air, the mermaid’s tail got caught in a decorative device, causing her to be stuck in place. Struggling to free herself but failing, she decided to rip off her tail to surface. Thanks to her quick and clever response, she escaped a dangerous situation by a hair’s breadth. It is known that this emergency technique is called “tail evacuation.”
A clip sharing the mermaid’s self-rescue process attracted millions of views. People also congratulated her for escaping from this memorable “work accident.”
It is known that the artificial tails of mermaids are usually made from two materials, fabric tails and silicone tails. Most professionals believe that fabric tails are safer because they have a quick-release system in case of danger. In contrast, silicone tails, resembling a second skin, take longer to remove.