Amusement Ride Safety

Millions of Pennsylvania residents and out of state tourists will be visiting Pennsylvania's amusement parks, county and community fairs and carnivals this summer season. According to the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Ride and Measurement Standards, Pennsylvania is home to more than 8,700 amusement rides and attractions, more than any other state or foreign country. To help remind riders to stay safe, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett has proclaimed the week of June 3-9, 2012 Amusement Ride Safety Week.

Pennsylvania's Agriculture Secretary has offered the following safety tips to help ensure that each rider has a fun and safe experience:

• Look for Commonwealth of Pennsylvania registration plates and inspection signs.
• Check and follow boarding restrictions for rides including those for medical concerns, height, and weight.
• Listen carefully to all ride instructions.
• Make sure ride operators are alert and attentive.
• Keep your arms, hands, feet, and legs inside the ride at all times. Always remain on the ride until it comes to a complete stop.
• Use shoulder harnesses, seat belts, lap bars or chains appropriately.
• Stop riding before you get tired. Tired riders are more likely to sustain injuries than alert riders.
• Stay hydrated. Not drinking enough water can increase your risk of injury or illness on some rides.
• Make sure that children are always supervised on rides and take an active role in determining what rides are appropriate for the child before boarding.

More information about ride safety can be found at www.agriculture.state.pa.us under "Amusement Rides".

Source: Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Offers Amusement Ride Safety Tips, PR Newswire, 24, May 2012.