This is a bit off-topic, in that it does not relate to the ESB, but to a discussion of "edgy" radio content and people taking health risks. About 20 years ago in Sacramento, station KDND 107.9, owned by Entercom, thought up a contest where listeners would compete to see who could drink the most amount of water without using the bathroom. The prize was a new Nintendo Wii, at the time, a very popular and expensive game system. The second place winner, a 28 year old mom of 3, trying to win the Nintendo for her kids, drank 2 gallons of water, before dropping out of the game. But she later complained of intense head pain, then collapsed and died. She was diagnosed with water intoxication, in which the excess water flooded her system, disrupted the electrolytes and sodium levels, and caused brain swelling. In the wrongful death lawsuit, her family was awarded $16 million.
In this case, the station and Entercom was found liable, because they had set up the contest, recruited the contestants, and had enticed them with a prize. Even when a nurse called in during the contest, warning of water intoxication, the DJ's kept the contest running. But -- this is not what happened with the ESB. They did not set up a contest, did not recruit daredevils, did not promise a prize, and wanted no involvement. This is the difference between these two situations.
ESB was not responsible for tempting the climbers. They did break through a security lock.
But KDND was found liable for what happened, 10 staff members were fired, and the station later surrendered their license.
Way off topic-- but this is why I don't like "edgy content" on radio. Some of it can become abusive and dangerous. ( I tend to avoid "morning zoo" shows with shock jocks, etc.).
legalclarity.org
In this case, the station and Entercom was found liable, because they had set up the contest, recruited the contestants, and had enticed them with a prize. Even when a nurse called in during the contest, warning of water intoxication, the DJ's kept the contest running. But -- this is not what happened with the ESB. They did not set up a contest, did not recruit daredevils, did not promise a prize, and wanted no involvement. This is the difference between these two situations.
ESB was not responsible for tempting the climbers. They did break through a security lock.
But KDND was found liable for what happened, 10 staff members were fired, and the station later surrendered their license.
Way off topic-- but this is why I don't like "edgy content" on radio. Some of it can become abusive and dangerous. ( I tend to avoid "morning zoo" shows with shock jocks, etc.).
What Happened in the Hold Your Wee for a Wii Lawsuit?
A Sacramento radio station’s water-drinking contest cost a mother her life. Here’s how the wrongful death lawsuit unfolded and what the jury decided.
legalclarity.org
