I did a show at the George Gee(The largest local auto dealer) company bar-b-q. My show happens to include glass walking and needle swallowing. While all of the tricks went very well, there was some gagging at the needle trick. This was the first time I had performed in public, and was not expecting that reaction. To me, the needle trick was an oldie. Just a classic that I always admired Houdini for doing so well. I never considered that such an oldie could be 'shocking.'
Long story short, I got a whole lot of friendly admonishones to add that disclaimer in the future. I guess I also thought it was kind of self-explanatory not to go around swallowing needles:)
Well, live and learn...

I have always been reluctant to do effects that use fire, knives, etc. for that very reason. It seems there are always some young people watching, and I just don't want to be responsible for what they might go off and try to do.

With an adult audience you wouldn't think there would be the need for such caution or disclaimers, but then the first ten pages of instructions for just about any appliance you buy are generally cautions and warnings. Do they really think I may take that sweeper into my bath?

I guess you have to expect some people will do pretty idiotic things...

Jim

Agreed. Some people will just do idiotic things ... even when they are cautioned not to. I believe that it is better to be safe than being sorry after that.