The wait for the State Fair of Texas is almost over. Dallas kicks off another season of fried food, bird shows, butter carvings and Fair rides Sept. 27. But before hitting the Midway, take a minute to remind your kids of these fair ride safety tips.
Fair Ride Safety Tips
- Trust your instincts. If you feel concerned for your health or safety after boarding a ride, ask the ride attendants to allow you to exit the ride before it begins.
- Watch the ride attendants carefully. If they seem distracted or fail to check safety harnesses or equipment before the ride begins, your safest choice is to walk away.
- Make sure the ride looks maintained. If an amusement ride looks like it hasn’t received routine maintenance, then it is may be unsafe.
- Follow posted safety restrictions such as height or health restrictions. Do not board a ride if you do not meet these restrictions.
- Leave your belongings with someone you trust. Many amusement rides raise a great risk that your belongings may fall out of the ride, particularly rides that travel at high speeds or have portions that are upside down.
- Keep up with news coverage of the State Fair before you attend and keep your eyes and ears open while at the Fair. If you see or hear news reports or other fair guests discussing a ride that has malfunctioned, then you should avoid that attraction.
Texas currently has no agency that is responsible for inspecting amusement park and fair rides, so fair visitors should be alert and cautious. Before taking a ride on the tilt-a-twisty-upside-down-a-whirl, take a look around, trust your instincts and don’t put yourself in harm’s way. If everything looks good, have a blast! But maybe go easy on the fried Snickers before hitting any of the spinning rides.
