It is that time of year full of roller coasters, carnivals, and cotton candy! With riding an amusement ride comes risk. We are here to ensure that patrons visiting amusement venues this summer are aware of the risk, but also know how to protect themselves and have fun at the same time.

Tips on staying safe:

• Always double check your safety restraint. If something is not right or you do not feel right within the restraint, call the ride operator over at once.
• Be your own inspector. Is the ride operator preoccupied with a cell phone? Does the ride not seem secure or well maintained? Use your gut instinct here. If something does not look right to you, it probably isn’t. It does not always take an amusement safety inspector to know if something is unsafe. You are your best inspector!
• Keep hands and feet in the ride at all times and adhere to height limits and health restrictions. Follow instructions and do not attempt to extend your arms or legs while a ride is in motion. If you or your child do not meet height requirements, do not try and bend the rules. Height limits are there for a reason, and yes, there are also maximum height limits for amusement rides, too. If you have a bad back or weak heart, do not ride. Ride operators are not mind readers, so be smart and do not risk your life.
• Observe the rides in operation. Does the ride seem too scary or something you’re not sure about? Take your own advice and do not ride. Feedback shows that people who do so are out to injure themselves or those around them.
• If there is a problem with a ride, report it to guest services and have them look into it.

– Jason Herrera is director of Amusement Safety Organization, Inc.