A: Hi, Allen. Look at this picture. Do you know this bridge?
B: Let me see. Oh, it's the Golden Gate Bridge.
A: Do you know how many people have killed themselves by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge?
B: I don't know.
A: Here is the report on that. It said people began jumping off San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge almost as soon as it was completed in 1937. Between 1937 and 1990, 850 people jumped from the bridge to their deaths.
B: 850? That's quite a lot. In an average year, 17 people will take the plunge.
A: Yes. This figure is based largely on the number of people actually seen jumping off the bridge and the number of bodies recovered. In some cases, a number is added to the official tally if a suicide note or other evidence is found, but only after thorough investigation. There have been a number of faked jumps by people attempting to escape the law.
B: Why is the bridge a popular spot for those serious about their suicidal intentions?
A: Because the Golden Gate Bridge is easily accessible and the long drop ensures a low chance of survival. Impact with the water after the 91-metre drop is like hitting a concrete wall at 140 kilometres an hour.
B: I see. Are there any suicidal people that have failed?
A: Only 17 suicide attempts in the bridge's history have failed.
B: I see.
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