Carnival-Ride Safety List
Reviewed By:
Timothy Yarboro, M.D.
Whether at an amusement park, state fair or summer carnival, you may be tempted to test your courage on a variety of rides and activities.
A ride on the Ferris wheel or the roller coaster usually provides a thrill in a safe environment. However, dangers may lurk if you fail to take proper precautions before, during and after the ride.
For starters, trust your instincts. Some carnivals and amusement parks have lax safety standards, especially those that travel. It may help to see if there is any reported history of problems with the carnival or amusement park. If a ride looks unsafe or if you have any doubts, avoid riding.
Who is at greater risk?
Anyone can get hurt on a carnival ride, but certain people are at increased risk, including:
- Children (or smaller-than-average adults). Rides are one-size but they don't fit all. Seats or safety restraints may not fit closely around small riders, placing them at higher risk of injury or ejection. Also, children who feel scared or uncomfortable may try to stand up and leave the ride when it slows or comes to a temporary stop, putting them in more danger.
- Older adults. As adults age, the blood vessels in the brain lose strength, putting them at greater risk for injury during very fast rides. Also, age impacts flexibility and muscle strength which can increase the risk of neck injuries.
- People with certain medical conditions, including heart disease, pregnancy, previous back or neck injury, physical disability, seizure disorders and other conditions. This is the standard warning you see at most thrill ride entrances, but there are many other conditions not listed that can increase your risk. So talk to your doctor before riding.
If you are unsure of whether it's safe to ride, err on the side of caution.
Before you ride
Before climbing onto a ride, ask the following questions for yourself or your child as part of a carnival ride safety checklist:
- Do I understand the instructions? Read all posted warnings or instructions. In particular, pay attention to the ride's age, height and weight restrictions. Also, obey all directions given by the ride operator.
- Am I secured in my seat? Seatbelts, lap bars and chains should be fastened before the ride and remain in place until the ride comes to a stop. All clothing and other possessions such as eyeglasses and handbags should be secured. Tie back long hair and tuck away jewelry, drawstrings or anything else that hangs and may be caught in machinery.
- Have I given myself time to recover from previous rides? Some rides operate at high speed with frequent accelerations. Repeatedly riding these types of rides without a break may cause dizziness or fainting. Give yourself at least 20 to 30 minutes to recover from these types of rides before trying again.
- Have I discussed ride etiquette with my child? Talk to your child about the do's and don'ts of ride safety. If your child seems at all frightened (either before boarding the ride or while sitting and waiting for it to begin) do not allow your child to ride. Always accompany younger children on rides. Watch older children who are unaccompanied throughout the ride.
Other riding tips
Don't forget other common sense precautions before riding, including:
- Use proper riding form. Keep your hands and feet inside the ride while it is operating. Do not throw or drop any items while the ride is moving. Standing up or rocking the machine can cause injury. Do not turn your head to the side while the ride is moving. If the ride suddenly accelerates, your neck may be injured.
- Start small children on gentler kiddie rides to see how they react before moving on to more challenging ventures.
- Never ride if you are ill or tired.
- Do not let children ride immediately after eating.
- Do not ride after using drugs or drinking alcohol and keep yourself properly hydrated with water at all times.
When you keep safety in mind, you can enjoy all the fun of carnivals and amusement parks without putting yourself or others at risk.
