Theme Park Safety Tips

Theme parks are wonderful to relax, unwind, and have fun with the whole family. Unfortunately, theme parks also have a host of potential hazards that can bring your vacation to an abrupt halt. If you plan on taking your kids to a theme park during Thanksgiving or winter break this year, read up on ways to stay safe.

Before you hit FUNPLEX, Six Flags, or Wet ‘n’ Wild SplashTown this season, check the weather. The winter temperatures in Texas can be unpredictable, reaching lows in the 50s and highs in 80s within the same week. Spending the entire day out in the elements will only be a success if you properly prepare for the weather. Sunscreen will protect from sunburn and sun poisoning if there will be lots of sunshine, and sweaters and scarves will keep your family warm and protected from windburn if chilly temperatures are in the forecast. Wear comfortable, weather appropriate clothes to ensure your physical health.

Many theme park injuries are the result of excited patrons failing to pay attention to their surroundings. Simple collisions with other park goers can result in injuries that may ruin your day. Watch out for small children and strollers, as well as people walking closely around you. Don’t run, no matter how excited you are to jump in line at the next ride. Running can easily lead to a harmful trip and fall accident or collision. If you need to stop, move out of the way of traffic to do so. Don’t stop abruptly while other people are moving around you.

Zones marked “Restricted” or “Employees Only” aren’t there to keep you out of something fun – they’re there to protect you. Don’t be a daredevil. Stay away from these areas, and never climb or hop fences. If you drop a personal belonging in restricted areas, ask a park employee to retrieve it for you. Often, restricted areas at theme parks are where there are dangerous moving parts and heavy machinery that operate the roller coasters. Falling into this equipment can result in serious injury or death.

Many rides have cautionary signs listing dangers for certain people, such as those who are pregnant, prone to strokes or motion sickness, have heart conditions, or pain in your neck or back. Pay attention to these signs and take them seriously. Ignoring these warnings could result in serious or worsened injuries. Many theme park injuries are the result of undiagnosed medical conditions. Go for your annual checkup (and bring the kids) before you visit a theme park. If you aren’t feeling well, trust your body and sit this one out.

Rides that have height, size, or weight restrictions do so for crucial safety reasons. Ignoring the rules or “cheating” by making yourself appear taller can endanger your life. You may think you – or your child – are brave enough for the ride, but it doesn’t come down to courage when a harness is too wide to keep you or your little one in the ride. The creators of the ride know more about than you do – trust them and obey the rules.

Many rides can whip your head and neck around violently, causing headaches or worse injuries like concussions or traumatic brain injury. This is especially a concern regarding children. During rides, don’t slouch or lean to the side. Stay in the center of your seat with your head pressed against the back of the seat, if there is one. Relax your torso to keep your head centered and upright throughout the ride. Help your children do the same. If a ride looks like it whips the riders back and forth too violently, consider taking a rain check.

The post Theme Park Safety Tips appeared first on GES Injury Attorneys.