“The overwhelming majority of accidents that happen at an amusement park are slip, trip and fall,” says Herb Brooks, President of the Pennsylvania Amusement Park Association. “Parents should be active participants in the safety of their children.” Here are some tips to ensure a day of happy memories:
Make a virtual visit. Most amusement park Web sites are loaded with information to help you plan a safe day. Visit the online park map to locate first aid stations and guest information centers. Check out policies about ride rules, lost child procedures, security information and park-specific tips. Some parks do not allow picnic lunches or beverages, so if you have special dietary needs, learn about park food options online.
Be sun safe. “Sunburn and dehydration after a day at an amusement park are two of the most common problems we treat in the ER,” says Elizabeth Neuman, DO, Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at Hershey Medical Center. She recommends that you slather on a high SPF sunscreen before you leave the house and reapply it liberally throughout the day, and also “tank up with H20 before you go.”
Most parks have water fountains, so if you choose not to buy water at the park, bring a water bottle to refill throughout the day. Coax your kids to drink at least 8 ounces per hour. Limit caffeinated beverages and salty foods which can contribute to dehydration.
Newborns and infants should not be out in the sun and heat because their bodies cannot regulate temperature like older children or adults. Much of the body’s ability to self-regulate temperature is through the head, so have your kids wear hats. If they start showing signs of thirst, weakness, lethargy or dizziness it’s time to get them indoors.
Pack to be prepared. Headaches, bee stings, bumps and bruises are also a common complaint at amusement park first aid stations. If your child has a known allergy to insect stings, bring along the appropriate medication. Call ahead to see if medicines that need refrigeration can be stored at the first aid station. Pack Tylenol, Motrin or ibuprofen in case you need it. Antibacterial hand gel and a few extra band-aids to cover up the occasional scrape will save you from waiting for a band-aid in a busy first-aid station.
Have a “lost parent” game plan. Before you start your day of fun, point out the park’s security guards to your kids. Introduce them to each other and tell your kids that these are the people who can help them if you get separated.
“Write your name and cell phone number on a piece of paper and place it in your child’s pocket,” advises Kathy Burrows, Public Relations Manager of Hersheypark, “and make sure the child knows it’s there.” Make it easy to identify the members of your party by dressing in bright, uniform colors, and determine a special place to meet if you get separated.
Teach your family to remain calm when panic arises. If you or your child become hurt or frightened while a ride is in operation, don’t panic, and NEVER try to get off a ride when it is moving. Warn your kids in advance to never do this. If you are with them hold them tight and ride it out with reassuring words. Call for the operator to stop the ride if it is feasible.
Be the armchair lifeguard. “The most common injuries in water-play areas are FDGB,” says Bethany Alwan Marketing Manager of Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park. “That means ‘Fall Down Go Boom.’” Even though there are lifeguards and attendants your child still could get hurt or overlooked when crowds of kids of all ages are running around a wet environment. Keep an eye on your kids at all times and let them know how to find you. Bring skid-resistant water shoes, swimwear and one complete change of clothing.
Be finicky about food. Amusement park food can be a real treat, however, it’s important to be aware of the signs of spoiled or ill-prepared foods and avoid them.
Parent Magazine
“Stay away from foods that can spoil easily, like mayonnaise,” says Neuman. “Keep an eye on the employees,” says Burrows, “Staff that’s handling money shouldn’t be handling food.” Nor should staff be eating while preparing food or doing so without wearing food gloves.
If you bring a picnic lunch keep it on ice. If it has been at room temperature for more than two hours, pitch it, says Neuman.
Ride Responsibly. Contrary to popular practice, riding a roller coaster with your hands in the air is not safe, nor is wearing loose clothing or taking pictures while on a ride. Read the park signage and height restrictions posted, by law, at each ride, and observe the ride before you or your children try it.
Lastly, if your child is screaming and pulling you away from a ride that she fears, don’t force her to get on it. Instead find something you can enjoy together like a show or ride your child is not afraid of, or those Dippin’ Dots that she’s been begging you for.
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