Water balloon launcher
A Water balloon launcher,[1] which is also known as water balloon slingshot,[2] is a ballistic toy device, for shooting water balloons at significantly longer range than by hand-throwing,[3] and that is used in well-prepared water balloon fights. Both home-made and toy manufacturers models exist, with some models being stationary and some 3-person operated, also mobile handheld wrist launchers exist on the market.[1] Even though water balloon launchers are mainly marketed towards children, adults also engage in water balloon activities.[4] Some supreme water balloon launchers are capable of throwing 300 yards or more.[5] It is unsafe to use a water balloon launcher to throw snowballs.[6]
Dangers
[edit]For young children water balloon launchers pose a potential risk of choking hazard and eye injuries.[7] A case has been reported where young man suffered orbital blowout fracture, and thus became legally blind from his left eye.[2] In another case, a 31-year-old female suffered from traumatic retinal dialysis in her right eye, resulting in permanent visual loss.[8]
References
[edit]- ^ a b Bankhurst, Adam (20 February 2020). "Best Water Balloon Launcher". IGN.com. IGN Entertainment Inc. Retrieved 19 June 2021.
- ^ a b "Water Balloon Slingshots: Toy or Weapon?". Robertslawfirm.com. Roberts & Roberts. Retrieved 19 June 2021.
- ^ "History of Facts about Water Balloons". History of Balloons. Retrieved 17 December 2021.
- ^ Cecil, Lauren (5 April 2021). "Win Every Fight This Summer With the Best Water Balloon Launchers". Spy.com. Spy Media, LLC. (Penske Media Corporation). Retrieved 19 June 2021.
- ^ Corona, Lauren (1 July 2021). "Water guns vs. water balloon launchers: Which is better?". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 17 December 2021.
- ^ "Water Balloon Launchers FAQ". Super Soaker Central. Retrieved 17 December 2021.
- ^ Limbachia, Dixita. "Water balloon slingshot tops list of 10 unsafe summer toys and products". USA Today. Retrieved 10 May 2022.
- ^ Chaudhry, N. A.; Falcone, P.; Alexandrakis, G.; Grannum, E. (29 October 1998). "Traumatic retinal detachment from a water balloon slingshot". Ophthalmic Surgery and Lasers. 29 (10). Yale University School of Medicine: 864–865. doi:10.3928/1542-8877-19981001-16. PMID 9793956. Retrieved 19 June 2021.