Live Volcanos; The White Island, New Zealand Example

The sad tragedy of people losing their lives in the New Zealand White Island volcano explosion has brought to the forefront that live volcanos are dangerous. Duh, of course they are dangerous!

Really did people not already know this?

Let’s be frank here. If people choose to travel and tramp over a live volcano, they choose to risk their own life. They take full responsibility for their own life, not the touring company of whom is the facilitator only to assist adventurous tourists to undertake these treks. The companies that facilitate these climbs are well aware of the risks, but they are also smart enough to know that by running a business providing these treks they can control the numbers of climbers and further highlight the risks .

The question that the short-sighted are asking is how can privately-owned companies that provide guided tours over live volcanos be held responsible when the inevitable happens? Quite simply these companies should not be held responsible.  People choose all over the world to climb over live volcanos, it is a risk that can lead to death. Pure and simple.

For the families and friends left behind from the White Island volcano eruption, the grief is enormous. Unfortunately, our societies have been brainwashed to believe that when something happens it is the fault of somebody else and not the loved one who made the fateful decision. The crazy need to blame others for decisions and actions by the affected individual is enormously selfish. Punishing a company for offering a service that others want is not the answer and is completely unfair.

Globally there are at least 15 popular volcanos that people can visit. Many of them without the use of a guide. The internet provides a lot of detailed information about volcanos and risks. One good one I found is 15 Active Volcanos You can Climb If You Are Looking for an Adventure.

In my opinion, the company that facilitated the fateful White Island tour should not be held accountable for the deaths and injuries from the eruption. However, I would think it prudent that the New Zealand government work with the company to review their methods of promotion of the tours and the information provided to the potential White Island visitor is clear and concise. Furthermore, any disclaimers should be verbally gone through with the tourists prior to their signing.