It’s All Fun and Games Until Someone Gets Hurt: 5 Guidelines to Adhere to If You’re Visiting an Amusement Park

There are over 400 amusement parks in the U.S and they attract more than 335 million people annually.  Most visitors have wonderful experiences that are often the highlight of children’s summers. Amusement parks post dozens of caution signs that help guests stay safe, yet every year some visitors have preventable accidents and are injured. Fortunately, following a few safety tips that can help families protect themselves during visits and help ensure happy memorable adventures.

1. Thrill Rides Are Not for Everyone

A recent ABC News story about roller coaster safety described a Six Flag’s model that drops riders so far and so fast they experience a floating sensation. At times the ride reaches 85 mph.  In fact, some of the most popular amusement parks in the U.S. include marquee roller coasters designed to create fear. They provide a sense of danger in a safe setting and most people can enjoy them without problems. However, extreme rides may be dangerous for smaller adults and most children. They are not suitable for pregnant women and those in frail health.

2. Children Need to Recognize Unsafe Conditions

According to a study by C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, 94% of parents polled stated they would report a ride operator who seemed unfit for the job. Despite this fact, many do not teach their children how to identify unfit operators. Passengers can be harmed because ride operators are drunk or on drugs. Some do not pay attention because they are talking on cell phones. Many do not enforce the rules. Experts strongly recommend teaching youngsters to stay alert and say something if they see something that does not seem right. Every year the parents of children who are injured due to negligence are forced to hire an attorney. Most need this personal injury attorney because they are struggling to pay for their children’s medical expenses.

3. Clothing Worn on Rides Should Be Appropriate

Loose clothing can become a hazard on amusement park rides since it may become a choking hazard. Riders should anything baggy or flowing, like a scarf. They need shoes that stay on their feet because footwear can get caught in machinery. Flip-flops are not a good idea.

4. It Is Important to Follow the Rules for Rides

It is critical that visitors read and follow all the rules surrounding rides. Amusement parks post rules to help protect visitors, yet a surprising number of guests work hard to get around them. For example, parks can be expensive and parents who do not want kids to miss anything sometimes negotiate with ride operators, and that can lead to problems. A 12-year-old may be small for his age, but parents feel he should get a chance to ride even though he doesn’t meet the height requirement. Unfortunately, if they get their way, the child is put in danger.

5. Stay on the Paths Meant for Guests

Amusement parks consist of two sections. One is designed to keep guests entertained, comfortable and safe. There are also hundreds of miles of electrical cables and mechanical devices that are hidden from the public and they can be dangerous. Parks put up fences and sometimes install equipment underground for visitors’ safety, but some still take chances and get hurt when they wander into dangerous areas. Adults and children are much more likely to enjoy a day at the park if they stick closely to areas designated for their enjoyment.

Amusement parks offer millions of families a way to enjoy adventures together, but every year some visitors are injured. Most of these incidents could be avoided by following park rules. It is also a good idea to dress appropriately, stay in safe areas, and be aware of unsafe ride operators.