‘100% not the vibe’: New anti-cliff jumping signs in North Vancouver come with Gen Z twist

New warning signs are up at Lynn Canyon designed to resonate with younger visitors. (Courtesy: District of North Vancouver)

The District of North Vancouver has adopted the language of the younger generations in its latest effort to discourage cliff jumping at a popular swimming spot.

New text message-shaped signs went up last week at Lynn Canyon with Gen Z-coded slogans warning of the perils of taking the plunge.

“Injured in Lynn Canyon? 100% not the vibe,” one reads. Another says, “Real ones keep their friends alive.”

“Spoiler Alert: Your viral jump ends in the hospital,” and “Your friends might cheer. First responders won’t,” the other two warn.

All of the signs end with the reminder: “Cliff jumping can be deadly.”

According to the district, more than 40 people have died and many more were injured at Lynn Canyon over the past 50 years. It says just this month, firefighters have been kept busy rescuing cliff jumpers in the park.

Last July, a man in his 20s died after jumping from Twin Falls in Lynn Canyon. Police said he was under water for half an hour before first responders could reach him. Days later, another young man who dove off a cliff while intoxicated had to be rescued from the water.

“The water is icy, and hypothermia can set in very quickly. The cliffs are steep and slippery, with some areas being unstable,” the district warned in a statement. “Water levels and conditions can change rapidly, creating a hazardous situation for visitors, first responders, and park rangers.”

It urged people to talk to their kids, friends and family members about the risks associated with the activity.

“The message is clear: Cliff jumping might look cool, but it’s seriously dangerous—and sometimes deadly.”