In the video, Gabriela Green-Thompson Kay was performing as a mermaid at Randburg shopping center in South Africa, blowing kisses and waving to children.
Shortly after, in front of many audiences, Gabriella's tail suddenly wrapped itself around a piece of coral, leaving her unable to get oxygen.
She immediately used the "tail evacuation" technique because she was running out of air, and the audience was terrified as they witnessed the incident, according to The Straits Times.
Fortunately, Gabriella eventually used the technique to slip out of the costume and swim to the top to breathe.
The video was then posted by Gabriella on Storyful and her TikTok, explaining the unfortunate incident that might have resulted in her drowning.
Gabriella, who has professional diving accreditation, also alerted people to the risks related to swimming.
She wrote: "Every professional mermaid has to know how to eject out of their tails in case of an emergency. It's unfortunate that it spoilt the magic at the moment, but it proves to be an important teaching opportunity."
"Safe swimming this festive season everyone," she added.
Furthermore, the mermaid mentioned that the swimmer's safety may be affected by the type of tail they wear; silicone and cloth are the two most common materials.
"For safety concerns, I don't perform with silicone tails because there isn't a rapid release mechanism for it," Insyirah stated.
"It takes some time to get out of silicone tails because they're [like] a second skin," she explained.
Hundreds of others shared their thoughts about the incident in the video's comment area, and many were impressed by Gabriella's fast response.
Good job, girl! you respond really fast, one person complimented.
I was very scared when I saw her in a dangerous situation, the second expressed.
Thank God, she was fine, someone said.
Wow I didn't once notice the tail getting caught! I just thought you were under for too long. That's so scary though! Another commented.
No need to explain! Well done !! We are just happy that you are safe. Keep up the good work, someone encouraged.
OMG! She's so smart, another exclaimed.
