Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the inherent risks associated with the mermaid performance industry, emphasizing the lack of safety measures and professional training, which can lead to serious accidents and injuries [3][9][10]. Group 1: Industry Risks - The mermaid performance industry prioritizes aesthetics, often at the expense of safety, leading to frequent accidents such as drowning and injuries from marine animals [4][6][10]. - Performers often lack professional rescue personnel during shows, increasing the risk of accidents [10][11]. - The industry has seen a rise in incidents, including a drowning event and injuries from shark bites, raising concerns about safety protocols [10][11][12]. Group 2: Training and Certification - The training for mermaid performances is often inadequate, with some institutions offering quick certification programs that do not ensure proper skill development [20][21][23]. - There is a lack of standardization in training, leading to varying levels of competency among performers, which can compromise safety [20][21]. - Many performers enter the industry with minimal training, relying on social media hype rather than substantial skill [20][22]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The mermaid performance industry has rapidly expanded due to its popularity on social media, attracting a mix of enthusiasts and professionals [15][17][19]. - The market is becoming increasingly competitive, with many performers and training institutions vying for attention, leading to price wars and reduced earnings for established performers [19][22]. - The industry is experiencing a shift as consumer interest wanes, resulting in lower sales of related merchandise and a decline in the perceived mystique of mermaid performances [23].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the inherent risks and safety concerns in the mermaid performance industry, emphasizing the need for better safety measures and professional training for performers [2][16][30]. Group 1: Industry Risks - The mermaid performance industry is characterized by various risks, including drowning, entanglement, and injuries from marine animals, which are often overlooked due to a culture of complacency among performers [2][9][12]. - A drowning incident involving a performer in Taiyuan was initially attributed to low blood sugar but later revealed to be caused by equipment failure, highlighting the lack of safety protocols [2][16]. - Performers often face dangerous conditions, such as performing in cold water and the risk of being bitten by marine animals, which can lead to severe injuries [15][19][30]. Group 2: Safety Measures and Regulations - The industry lacks standardized safety regulations, with many venues failing to provide professional rescue personnel during performances, leading to increased risks for performers [19][20]. - Although there are regulations requiring safety measures, the implementation varies significantly across different venues, resulting in inconsistent safety practices [19][20]. - Performers often have to purchase their own insurance due to the lack of support from venues, indicating a gap in industry responsibility for performer safety [20][21]. Group 3: Training and Certification - The training and certification process for mermaid performers is criticized for being too lenient, with some institutions offering quick certification programs that do not adequately prepare individuals for the challenges of live performances [30][31]. - The influx of new performers due to the popularity of mermaid shows has led to a saturation of the market, resulting in a decline in the quality of training and performance standards [30][32]. - Many performers enter the industry without sufficient experience, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents during performances [31][32]. Group 4: Industry Evolution and Market Trends - The mermaid performance industry has evolved from a niche market to a popular attraction, especially during the pandemic when traditional tourism was restricted [25][30]. - The demand for mermaid performances has led to the emergence of various training programs and merchandise, but the market is becoming increasingly competitive, driving down prices and performer wages [29][30]. - The article notes a shift in consumer behavior, with a decline in the perceived value of mermaid performances as the novelty wears off, impacting sales of related merchandise [33].