Thrilling Amusement Rides: Nearly Falling Out and Safety Measures
Amusement rides can be thrilling, but they can also be a source of near misses and heart-stopping moments. For those of us who have dared to ride such attractions, the memory of nearly falling can linger. In this article, we will explore the thrill and danger of these rides, the safety measures in place, and share some personal accounts from those who have experienced these near misses.
Amusement Park Experiences and Near Misses
While many people have experienced the thrill of being on the edge of their seats during amusement rides, some have felt the intense fear or exhilaration that comes with nearly falling out. Such incidents can be dangerous and, of course, it is always better to stay safe. Despite the risks, people continue to enjoy these thrilling rides, and many operators ensure that the safety measures they implement are foolproof.
No Seat Belts on Log Rides: A Close Call
One of our readers, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared a close call experience on a log ride. Despite the lack of seat belts, which can be common on log rides, the experience was marked by a log jam causing a backup in a holding pond. The ride's operation was halted as the employees helped those in the logs out. The reader and other guests had to wade waist-deep in the water to reach the dock. Security required them to wear shoes in the park, but the water felt refreshing on their bare feet. Although the incident was closely managed, it certainly adds to the excitement and unpredictability of such rides.
Log Ride Experience No seat belts Log jam causing a backup Barefoot experience in the water Evacuation due to safety concerns
Riding the Grand National Rollercoaster: A Narrow Escape
An incident with the Grand National rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach in the 1970s is another example of a closely escaped near fall. The reader's little brother, who was a child at the time, nearly fell out of the ride at its crest during a "jump." Fortunately, the ex-stepfather managed to grab the child's belt loop, preventing a catastrophic outcome. While safety measures were less stringent in that era, it all added to the excitement and thrill of the ride.
Derby Racers: A High-Speed Excursion
Another close call occurred at a carousel ride known as "Derby Racers" in Playland, Rye, NY. The carousel was famous for its high speeds, with its top speed on the outside being over 30 miles per hour. While the ride has been slowed down over the years, it still remains one of the fastest open rides in the world. The reader nearly had to evacuate during a malfunction in EPCOT's "golf ball ride," but the experience provided a unique opportunity to see memorabilia that is usually not accessible to the public.
Derby Racers Experience Famous for its high speed (over 30 miles per hour) Slowed down in the late 60s Fastest open ride in the world Close call due to malfunction at EPCOT
Public Safety and Amusement Rides
Amusement rides, despite their thrilling nature, come with proper safety measures. Restraints on the rides are designed to prevent such near misses. However, the excitement of these rides often overshadows the precautions taken by operators to ensure passenger safety. The actions of the readers and their families only emphasize the importance of these safety measures.
In conclusion, while amusement rides can be thrilling, they also come with near misses that can be close to disaster. However, proper safety measures are in place to prevent such incidents, and brave souls continue to enjoy these rides, always staying informed and vigilant about safety procedures.