Park safety is at the forefront after a man jumped from a popular cliff and was badly hurt. It happened Monday afternoon at DeSoto Falls in DeKalb County.

In the past, several people have died after jumping off the water fall.

23-year-old Jason Carter of Georgia took being a daredevil to a whole new level.

"It's not one of the most intelligent things a person can do. It's a pretty stupid thing to do," says DeSoto State Park Ranger Josh Hughes.

Carter took a running jump off a cliff that was 150 feet high. He landed in water that was full of jagged rocks.

"His last words were 'watch this' before he went over," says DeSoto State Park Superintendent Tim Whitehead.

Amazingly, Carter survived the fall but park officials say he had visual deformities in his back and possible spinal cord injuries.

Carter was airlifted to Erlanger in Chattanooga. He's listed in stable condition.

"You shouldn't come into an area like this and think you're going to show off in front of people because it's very dangerous. And you just shouldn't do it," says Whitehead.

Park officials say safety should always come first when you're at a park.

Follow all rules and regulations. Don't get too close to the edge of a cliff or waterfall. Most importantly, use common sense.

"Don't do anything that would put your life in jeopardy or danger," says Whitehead.

Submitted on 04/25/2006

Submitted by: Anonymous
Reference: WAFF channel 48 news

Copyright © 2006 DarwinAwards.com

James said:
Neutral: Honorable Mention
This borders on "too common", but I liked the fact that he actually said "watch this" as he went over. The fact that he was probably sober helps nudge it into the "keep" category (most of the daredevils we hear about are drunk, drugged, or both). I will remain neutral but keep this for the readers to decide...

Sheryl said:
Neutral: Honorable Mention
Thanks for the story. Yes, the "Watch this" takes the story to a whole new level, so I'll go with James on this one and see what happens.

Jorge said:
Neutral: Honorable Mention

Jack said:
Neutral: Honorable Mention

Greg said:
Definitely Keep: Honorable Mention
I'd say this is pretty good. It's a cut above graduates in Cambridge jumping off 20 foot bridges to make sure they start their first jobs with pots on their legs! 150 feet, without knowing what's at the bottom! That's what makes the difference for me. Definitely a keeper! Thanks.

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