The Risks of Theme Park Rides: Tips for a Safe Visit

The adrenaline rush, the screams, and the excitement of a theme park ride can be exhilarating. Whether it’s the twists and turns of a roller coaster or the drops of a water ride, theme park attractions are popular entertainment for many.

However, with the thrill comes a degree of risk. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries on theme park rides, and some even lose their lives. According to the National Safety Council (NSC) survey, approximately 1,281 ride-related injuries were reported in 2021. This entails nearly 3.7 injuries per million visitors.

Unfortunately, that’s not all! A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics found that between 1999 and 2010, there were over 92,000 emergency room visits for ride-related injuries in children under 18.

Considering these alarming statistics, you must take the following precautions when visiting a theme park, especially if you are going with your kids.

Follow Ride Restrictions And Guidelines

Before boarding a ride, make sure you and your kids meet the height, weight, and age requirements. Instruct your kids not to cheat the system by standing on their tiptoes or padding their shoes.

Make them understand that these restrictions are in place to keep you safe, and ignoring them could possibly lead to serious injury.

Additionally, pay attention to any health warnings and avoid rides that may aggravate pre-existing conditions such as heart problems, motion sickness, or neck and back issues.

Use Safety Equipment Correctly

The safety equipment provided on rides, such as seat belts, lap bars, and harnesses, are designed to keep you and your kids secure during the ride and prevent them from falling or being thrown from the ride.

A common scenario here could be trying to remove your seat belt or harness during the ride. It, evidently, could cause injury to yourself or others around you.

So, whenever you or your family are boarding a ride, ensure they wear the safety equipment correctly. It is also recommended to keep your arms and legs inside the ride vehicle at all times and avoid standing up or attempting to exit before the ride has come to a complete stop.

Ask the ride attendants if you don’t know how you use the equipment. They are trained to operate the rides and ensure riders follow safety protocols. Ergo, it lowers the risk of accident or injury.

Watch For Ride Malfunctions

While theme parks take numerous precautions to ensure the safety of their visitors, ride malfunctions can still occur. If you notice something out of the ordinary, such as a strange noise, an unusual movement, or a sudden stop, immediately alert the ride attendants and get off the ride if possible.

Unfortunately, even with all the precautions, accidents can still happen due to ride malfunctioning. If you or a family member gets injured due to a ride malfunctioning, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately.

After ensuring everyone’s well-being, search “personal injury lawyer near me” on Google and contact the lawyers for legal advice. They can help you understand your legal rights, determine who is responsible for your injuries, and even help you negotiate with insurance companies if necessary.

Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

Theme parks can be overwhelming, with lots of sights, sounds, and people. That’s especially true for kids as they can easily get caught up in the excitement, get distracted, and wander off in crowded areas.

So, keep a close eye on your kids and ensure they always stay within your line of sight. If they’re too young to ride alone, make sure an adult accompanies them at all times.

Similarly, if you notice any other child wandering around unsupervised, alert the nearest park employee to help reunite them with their parents.

Apart from this, you must keep an eye out for potential hazards such as loose objects, wet floors, or broken stairs. Don’t run or push when informing the park employee. Instead, be mindful of others around you.

Keep Hydrated And Take Breaks

Finally, Visiting a theme park can be a tiring experience, with long lines and lots of walking, especially in hot weather. That’s why staying hydrated, and taking breaks are essential to avoid heatstroke or exhaustion.

Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, take breaks throughout the day to prevent fatigue and stay energized for the rest of the visit.

Don’t push yourself too hard – remember that visiting a theme park is meant to be a fun and enjoyable experience, not an exhausting one.

Wrap Up

Theme park rides can be a fun and exciting way to spend a day with family, but they also come with risks. So, it’s vital to understand the potential dangers and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.