Are PV’s Cliffs a Safety Hazard?
The Palos Verdes cliffs, a constant attraction to both tourists and locals due to the breath-taking views and scenic hiking trails, are not only alluring but evidently dangerous as well. A number of people have fallen down the rugged cliffs, and while some have survived, others met death down below the peninsula’s edge.
In fact, Palos Verdes Estates Police Captain Tony Best reported that between 2010 and 2015, “thirty-one incidents—including suicides, rescues and injuries—have occurred along blufftops in the city.”
As these incidents prevail, some cannot help but wonder if the existing safety precautions are enough.
“The first time I walked along the cliffs was definitely a little chilling,” freshman Josephine Nolan said. “The height of the rocky ledge can be scary, especially with the strong winds and lack of fencing.”
While the area feels hazardous to some, others think that the installation of fencing or more signs would interfere with the natural beauty of the bluffs.
PVHS senior Conrad Sanacore, who frequently hikes down the cliffs to surf said, “Sometimes people can get careless and fall off while walking on the cliffs, but I think they should stay the same.”
While Palos Verdes is not legally obligated to install fencing along natural cliff-side areas, Councilman James Vandever believes further discussion on improving the blufftop safety is certainly something the city should give a push to. “Some people have missed that warning [that they are getting close to the dangerous conditions] and paid dearly for it,” Vandever said.
This is Victoria's first year on The Point. She enjoys being outside, music, and relaxing.