Amusement Park Safety

Over the last few weeks, there have been several publicized amusement park injuries. While some of them have had truly tragic outcomes, the overall safety outlook for the nation's theme parks is quite good. In 2004, 328 million Americans visited the nation's major theme parks, an increase from 322 million in 2003 when there were 3,900 injuries nationwide. Of that total, 78 required an overnight stay in the hospital. Deaths due to amusement rides have averaged two per year for the last 25 years. Of note, the US federal government does not oversee attractions at major theme parks.

Some people have expressed concerns over the increasing gravitational forces that are generated on some of the newer rides and the potential for trauma to the brain and spinal cord. A review of 22 such injuries referenced in Neurology Today that were thought to be related to amusement park rides were ultimately found not to have a causal relationship.

Some injuries that have been associated with normal usage of "fixed-site" theme park rides include damage to major arteries in the neck, brain hemorrhages, and spinal damage. In that light, if you or a family member experiences severe headaches, confusion, or unusual weakness after a ride, get medical attention as soon as possible and be specific about having been at an amusement park and the rides you have been on.

While many of the concerns regarding injury prevention appear to be directed at the elderly, it is young children under the age of 14 that are at the highest risk for injury and for whom the greatest caution should be shown. Many injuries are a consequence of failing to keep ones arms and legs within ride vehicles and attempting to exit before the attendant has given the OK to do so as rides can stop unexpectedly.

Many of the injuries that occur are the result of poor planning or a failure to prepare for the conditions associated with being outside all day in what are often sunny and hot conditions. Sunburns, dehydration and heat stroke are all preventable with the use of sunscreens and adequate hydration. Water is the best fluid to prevent dehydration and some of the fatigue that accompanies a busy day along with avoiding excessive alcohol intake and some high sugar or caffeinated soft drinks. Wearing comfortable shoes and socks can reduce the intensity of the heat transmitted from walking on hot pavement.

Consider planning out your day and building in several rest breaks. Pay attention to the instructions when entering a ride to ensure that you get the most fun from the experience with the least amount of risk. Avoid choosing some of the more forceful rides immediately after meals, if you are feeling queasy, or if you have a history of neck or back injuries.

Spend a few minutes in advance going over the day with smaller children. Explain each ride to them so they know what to expect and do not force them to go on a ride that they are clearly afraid of. Set some reasonable expectations on how close they should stay with responsible adults and develop a contingency plan if someone gets lost.

Today's modern theme parks offer a cornucopia of thrilling experiences designed for the whole family. A little pre-planning will ensure that the day is memorable for all the right reasons.

For additional information, you can visit the websites of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions or the Theme Park Insider.

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