State fairs, local amusement parks, and big destination theme parks are in full swing at this time of year, and boy do they get crowded. But are all rides made equally? Here are some general tips to lessen your family’s chance of having “a bad time.”
If You See Something, Say Something: So many injuries occur because restraints and seat belts are not engaged properly. Teach your kids to look around at other people getting strapped in so they’ll know if there is anything wrong with their restraints.
Stay Away From Wave Pools: Wave pools look fun, but they are the sites of so many injuries. If you remember Action Park, EMTs were regularly at the wave pool. Even modern wave pools are so dangerous that many insurance companies won’t cover them.
Respect the Height Requirements: We should really be looking at the height requirements as gospel. People whose bodies didn’t fit into the seats, for one reason or another, are also more likely to suffer an injury.
If You See Something, Say Something, Part 2: Most parents do this anyway, but simply looking at the ride can help you determine a lot. Think about lateral motion, head restraints, and spend some time looking at people getting off the ride. Did they use words like “rough”?
It Happens Here: Every amusement park in the area, including humble AdventureLand on Long Island, have experienced guests and employees getting injured. It seems to be a “when” and not an “if.”
I think we put up with the very, very slight danger of amusement parks because there’s really no other place to get upside down while you are pinned by artificial gravity. I hope this list will make you feel a little safer at amusement parks. And good luck telling your kid they can’t go on a ride because people are exiting it on stretchers.
Recent Comments