Why did inflatable slide collapse?

AN INVESTIGATION is underway after an inflatable slide overturned on Monday night, throwing children playing on it to the ground.

The incident took place at Lemon Park in Latsia, which was hosting a school party for graduates of Aglandja’s fourth primary school.

Seven children were injured, with four yesterday remaining in Nicosia General Hospital yesterday. One has a fractured arm, while another has reported neck problems.

School supervisors have since said that many of the children, aged 12 to 13, had been misbehaving. They were told to calm down, with their parents, who were present, asked to control them.

Police are investigating whether the slide overturned due to a loss of pressure or whether too many children were on it, above capacity levels.

Head of Nicosia Police Kypros Michaelides stated that, “children were thrown off the slide at 9.10pm with Lemon Park, Latsia Municipality, the Electromechanical Services and Fire Department all helping with the investigation.”

He added that the owner of the venue is also being questioned, “as to whether he followed the proper safety procedures for the correct operation of the slide.”

Themis Kyriacou, who is part of the investigating team, told state radio that, “the responsibility of the slide’s supplier must also be looked into, as he should have informed all buyers of the proper safety and operating procedures and whether the slide is suitable for children of this particular age group.”