1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

Roller coasters can be very intimidating things to look at, or they may be a very large piece of art depending on your view. One thing is common to everyone though, and that is the feeling of nervousness and the thought of "Is this really safe?" the first time that you sit down and strap in on a ride. In a word, the answer to that previous question is a very positive "yes." In fact, riding roller coasters is one of the safest entertainment options provided that you ride safely and follow posted and verbal rules given by the park and the ride operators. If you are still questioning if riding one of these large machines is safe, then you should definitely read the rest of the article. Hopefully by the end you will be reassured of your safety while you enjoy your day at an amusement park.

There are some overall basics to the safety of roller coasters (and most any amusement ride for that matter) that are helpful to understand, and that will make your day more enjoyable. First and foremost, follow all verbal and written instructions for the ride. Having worked as a ride operator at Cedar Point for two summers I know there are a lot of rules and too much fine print, but the really important stuff is always visible in prominent places and repeated by ride operators. Simple rules like not standing up during the ride, keep your seat belt/lap bar fastened and in place are the most common warnings given by ride operators, and are also displayed in large print on signs in more than a few places around the ride station. If you follow these two very simple and easy to understand rules, then you will be safe and be able to enjoy your ride to the fullest extent.

Another basic safety rule to keep in mind is to use all provided restraint systems and safety measures on the ride. If there is a seat belt along with the lap bar, you absolutely must use both. One of the most common questions I got as a ride operator was "Do I have to use both?" The answer in every situation will be yes, as state law often requires the multiple levels of safety. Your restraints will often be checked by at least one ride operator in the station before your train leaves the station. If the operator asks you to adjust your restraint tighter or does so themselves, listen or let them, as they are doing it for your safety. They know more than you do about the dynamics of the ride and what is safe.

On the mechanical and technical side of the issue the restraints all feature redundant safety systems. The most common redundant restraint type on modern rides is the hydraulic restraint. This can take the form of either a lap bar or an "over the shoulder restraint" (sometimes called a horse collar). The most noticeable difference between hydraulic restraint systems and the more conventional and traditional ratcheting restraints is that hydraulic restraints have a wider safety range. In other words, they better accommodate larger and smaller guests by fitting snugly in any position, as opposed to ratcheting systems where there is a "click" and between the clicks the restraint is often rather loose. Additionally, hydraulic restraints have multiple redundant fail-safes built in, and that sometimes means that a seat belt may not be required (and consequently not provided) on the ride. Seat belts are almost always a redundant or supplemental restraint, and are rarely a primary restraint. However, you should still always fasten and tighten a seat belt when one is provided.

The next time you are at an amusement park, you can now be confident in the safety of the rides, no matter how out of control they may feel. Just follow the basic safety rules and common sense for an enjoyable time. Sit down, strap in, and enjoy your ride!

Learn more about this author, Michael Hunter.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Rules and regulations for the safe use of roller coasters?
We want to hear your view. Write now!