Granted: most folks probably never knew they could die from drinking too much water - until this story hit.
But, in the same way a radio station or radio show should be held accountable for luring listeners into a dangerous stunt, contest, or promotion without divulging any dangerous ramifications to participants - so should any participant have the common sense to seek out advice before agreeing to do anything that involves their body and health.
Contests, stunts, and outrageous promotions have been a part of Radio since its inception. But, competition between stations for ratings and the revenue they bring has never been tighter.
Before asking listeners to become involved in any of these, stations and DJs should make certain they understand what might go wrong. They have an obligation to ask professional opinions from doctors, lawyers, or whoever makes sense. If the risks are too high, drop it. In the same respect, participants shouldn't do so blindly.
Radio stations and DJs feed listeners what they respond to and use ratings as feedback. If a morning show continues to do stupid or dangerous stunts because listenership continues to grow - then the station is simply taking cues from its listeners.
If there's a radio show in your town or city which behaves in a way you find unacceptable - whether it's language, content, or stunts - then you, as a listener, also have an obligation to inform the DJs and their managers that you don’t appreciate what you're hearing - then turn it off.
Because if you don't, then you're voting for more of it.
