Roller Coaster Safety

Riding roller coasters can be fun and adventurous, but roller coaster riders should be well informed of proper safety precautions before stepping aboard a popular thrill ride. Technology has advanced since the debut of the very first roller coaster, equipping rides with high tech safety systems to prevent accidents from occurring. Even with safety systems in place, roller coaster accidents do occur from time to time. A good percentage of these accidents occur do to ride operator errors and riders not properly following safety guidelines for each ride. In rare cases, roller coasters have mechanical failures resulting in rider injuries.

If you have never rode a roller coaster, you must know the potential risks involved. The Brain Injury Association of America released a report stating that research shows roller coaster rides can pose a health risk to some. This does not mean that everyone will have a negative experience. The overwhelming majority of coaster riders will experience no ill effects from these types of rides. Many times people will be unaware of preexisting medical conditions that are a factor in roller coaster injuries and fatalities, such as heart ailments. It is wise for you to be aware of any physical conditions ahead of time.

There are several things riders can do to help prevent injuries, and most things involve common sense. A rider should act responsibly while riding a roller coaster. There is no reason why a rider should disobey safety regulations, putting themselves or others at risk. If you see someone doing something that looks unsafe, it is highly recommended that you tell a ride operator or other park official. The same goes if you see something physically unsafe with a ride, such as a malfunctioning seat belt, harness, or lap bar.

Most rides will have a sign posted with ride requirements and restrictions. It is important for riders to follow these rules. The signs are in place for a reason. There are times when a park employee disregards the restrictions that are in place. This can be extremely dangerous for everyone. Each rider should know and understand what rules are in place for the ride they are boarding. Age, height, weight, and overall health conditions are all important factors when it comes to riding a roller coaster. If a child is frightened to board a particular ride, do not force them on. This can result in a variety of problems.

Be aware of what ride operators say when you are boarding and exiting the ride. Many accidents occur when riders do not pay attention to what they are being told. When ride operators say keep your hands, arms, legs, and feet inside the ride at all times, they mean it. If a seat belt is required, always keep the seat belt latched. Never try and stand up on a roller coaster. Never try and exit the ride before it comes to a complete stop, as this will most likely result in an injury.

It is strongly recommended that you do not chew any gum, or snack on any food while riding these types of rides. There have been documented accidents and fatalities of riders engaging in this type of activity while riding a roller coaster. It is also important to secure any loose belongings you may have taken with you on the ride. Hats, glasses, cell phones, and other loose articles of clothing can be dangerous if not secured properly. Nobody wants to lose any of their personal items either, so don't risk the chance of something getting loose from you. Most rides will have a place to temporarily store your belongings while going for a ride.

The thrill and excitement of riding a roller coaster can be a tense experience alone, but having the ability to relax your muscles while enjoying these rides will help a great deal. Many neck injuries can occur from tense muscles. It is best to always keep your head against the headrest while riding a roller coaster. Leaning forward will increase your chances of a whiplash type injury.

Always be fully aware of your surroundings while entering and exiting a ride. There can be a lot of things occurring at the same time, as well as a large amount of people surrounding you. Your chances of injury are greatly reduced by simply paying attention and playing it safe. If riders follow all of these simple safety precautions, riding a roller coaster can be a safe and enjoyable experience for most everyone.