Reasons for Avoiding Carnivals

This past weekend, I took my grandson to a small town homecoming. The place was packed and it was good to see individuals that I hadn't seen in some time. This homecoming had a traveling carnival set up to keep the children occupied. While the rides were freshly painted, I couldn't help but observe some disturbing things. This article gives reasons for avoiding carnivals or at least playing it safe on selecting rides for your child.

Power Wires

Across the grounds in many places were power lines for the rides and concessions. These were easy to trip over. Most were not solidly anchored. I didn't notice any breaks or bare wires. However, it wouldn't take much to break them. Some ran to open fuse boxes at the site of the ride or concession. a fire Marshall would of had a field day.

Old Rides

As I said, the rides were attractively painted. However, the metal underneath the paint looked very brittle. The parts squeaked loudly as they ground against each other. The safety harnesses were loose around the children. Most rides appeared dilapidated.

Rules for Riding

Little children have always had a height rule. This carnival didn't. If the child could fit, they could ride. Little children that were riding in the Bumper cars were almost thrown out on collisions.

Personnel

The carnival had workers that were with the company and workers that weren't. I won't condemn anyone, but some gave a very bad impression of character. It scared me to think, that parents were putting their children's lives in the hands of a summer carnival worker.

Costs

The cost of the rides averaged $2 to $3 for a few trips around a circle or up and down on a rides. After four short rides, we were done. I asked my grandson, if he wanted one more ride? No, he said. I was relieved.

Carnivals are slowly being fazed out for the larger amusement parks. However, there are still a few of these operations left. I wonder if there are any agencies, that check on the safety and security of them. I still think that they could serve a purpose. They help to bring in attendance at homecomings and company picnics. They do provide jobs for individuals. However, I can in-vision a Final Destination movie for individuals that attend these carnivals.