With the popularity of amusement rides and theme parks in the US, a survey showed that this thriving industry received more than 300 million visitors in 2023 alone. Out of this number, over 3,400 people were injured and two others died.

Amusement park accidents can be serious and concerning, but it’s important to note that they are relatively rare considering the large number of people who visit amusement parks each year. Amusement parks generally prioritize safety and adhere to strict regulations to minimize the risk of accidents. However, accidents can still occur due to various factors, such as mechanical failures, human error, or unforeseen circumstances.

Common types of amusement park accidents include:

1. Mechanical Failures:
   • Malfunctions in ride mechanisms or safety systems can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent mechanical failures.
2. Operator Error:
   • Human error, such as incorrect operation of rides or failure to follow safety protocols, can contribute to accidents.
3. Ride Design Flaws:
   • In some cases, accidents may occur due to flaws in the design of a ride. This could involve issues with structural integrity, safety restraints, or other design elements.
4. Unexpected Events:
   • Natural disasters, severe weather conditions, or other unforeseen events can pose risks to amusement park visitors.
5. Health Issues:
   • Some accidents may be triggered by the health condition of the riders, such as pre-existing medical conditions that were not disclosed or considered before riding.

Amusement parks typically implement safety measures, including regular inspections, staff training, and strict adherence to safety guidelines and regulations. In the event of an accident, amusement parks are generally required to report the incident to relevant authorities, and investigations are conducted to determine the cause.

It’s important for visitors to follow all safety guidelines, height and age restrictions, and any other rules provided by the amusement park. Additionally, visitors should report any concerns or issues they observe to park staff to help ensure a safe experience for everyone

While the number of deaths and injuries were smaller compared to road accidents which kill more than 40,000 people annually, amusement operators should still improve the safety of their rides to eliminate accidents and injuries. Meanwhile, to prevent accidents, amusement operators have invested on technological improvements and safety equipment of their rides. Also, they focus on training personnel about basic medical procedures.

According to Safeparks and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, visitors in amusement parks can also do their part to make their experience safe and fun.

Safety tips in amusement rides for parents with children:

1. Patronize only amusement parks with good records and which are known for its safe rides.

2. Do not force children to ride on something they are afraid. According to Safeparks, forcing children to ride is dangerous because they might panic and do something risky such as attempting to get out of the ride while it is moving.

3. Before the child board on any ride, parents should explain to them the risks and the proper use of safety equipment such as handlebars and metal lap bars.

4. If parents think that their children have a risky behavior, they should be more attentive and supervise them more closely.

5. Always obey the requirements in rides such as the minimum height, size, weight, and other health restrictions. Parents should never sneak their children on rides if they are too small or too young for these. Also, parents should not allow their children to ride on something they had outgrown.

6. Parents should tell their children to ask uniformed employees for help in case they are lost or separated from their families.

7. Report to uniformed amusement employees if anyone is riding unsafely.

Safety tips for young children:

1. Wear comfortable clothes that will not get caught while on rides. Also, it is better to wear shoes than sandals and slippers and avoid wearing jewelry.

2. Children should not board on any ride that they know they will get extremely scared.

3. To know the risks and how the ride works, children should read the sign.

4. Make sure that the harness and safety buckles are in proper position. If they are not sure how to use certain equipment, they should ask for assistance to a uniformed employee.

5. Listen to the operators and assistants’ verbal instructions.

6. During a ride, children should keep their hands, arms, feet and legs inside at all times.

7. Always hold the handlebars during a ride and follow the proper seating position and posture.

8. Before getting off, make sure that the ride is in complete stop. Also, children should listen to the assistant’s verbal instructions on how to exit safely.

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