How To Ride Safely

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 4, 2007



For More Information Contact:
http://www.krmgroup.com






HOW TO HELP ENSURE YOUR SAFETY ON AMUSEMENT RIDES



Summer fun almost always means a trip to an amusement park or fair. Ken Martin, an

amusement ride safety consultant in Richmond, Virginia offers his advice. Here are

some tips and tricks, to make your visit an enjoyable one. The first thing to

remember is to dress appropriately. Proper footwear is must. No bare feet, sandals or

clogs. A good walking shoe or athletic shoe is recommended. Clothes should fit, be

cool and comfortable. No baggy or loose fitting clothes. Secure long hair and other

loose items. Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen.

Skin types vary so pick the one right for you. A hat to protect you from the sun is a

good idea as well. Don’t start on any empty stomach and be sure you are well

hydrated. Water or sports drinks are the best. If you are under a physicians’ care

for any medical condition(s) you should consultant with them before you ride.


When you enter the ride area, pick a meeting place in case of an emergency or someone

gets separated from your group. A location near the Main Entrance/Office or First Aid

Station is best. Cell phones, two-way radios and pagers are good ways to stay in

touch.

But remember some ride rules may not let you take them on the rides. If you do,

remember to keep the device secure, as it can become a missile if it gets thrown

around. Of course you could always leave it with a non-rider. Before you eat or drink

anything remember to wash your hands. Germs can be plentiful in an outdoor

environment with machinery, animals and fowl.



Remember, hand sanitizer is only a temporary fix. Always be aware of the weather. It

only takes a few minutes for a storm to appear. In the event of lightning, a building

or automobile may provide adequate shelter. Never stand in an open field, near or

under a tree or next to an amusement ride.

If there is a map, make sure everyone in your group gets one. If there are children,

be sure each one has an adult or a responsible and mature person with them. Some

rides have special requirements and someone who knows the child must be willing to

act and be responsible for the child. Parks, Carnivals and Fairs are not a baby

sitting service. Never force a child to get on a ride. Their time will come. To be

sure if the ride is right for you, watch it, listen to it and observe the people on

it. If it makes a strange noise, ask about it. If it looks bad such as rust or bad

paint, ask. If you see other people getting sick or dizzy as they ride or get off

and that happens easily to you, you might want to pass that particular ride. If

something just does not look or feel right, avoid that ride. Pay attention to all

SAFETY RULES. They are there for a reason.

Check your own restraint, if there is a problem, speak up. Keep your hands and feet

inside the ride at all times. Do not stand up or try to rock the carrier/seat of any

ride. Remain seated until the Operator tells you can exit. Remember that you are the

final inspector of the ride.


If there is ever a problem, remember to tell someone. Management wants and expects

you to have a good time. Whether it is the Carnival Owner, Fair Manager or a Police

Officer, if you don’t bring a problem to their attention, it could hurt someone.

Everyone wants you to have a good time. So remember to use “common sense” and ask if

you have a question.