A carnival by definition is described as a traveling amusement show, having side shows, rides, etc. Wow, is that a little outdated by today’s standards? This description may have been appropriate in the early 1920’s and into the mid 1960’s. Some where along the way the dictionary’s simplistic overview doesn’t seem to capture the essence of today’s carnival. Yes... there are shows and rides and etc. but what is the etc? The number and types of rides have grown significantly yet many remain essentially the same in concept. There are rides in excess of 50 years old continuing to operate throughout the United States and at some of the smaller county fairs it is like taking a step back in time on to a midway of yester year. As the sun sets over the fair and the lights of the midway come on it is almost like a “living thing” has been created taking on a life of its own. The popcorn is popping, the elephant ears are frying, sausages and onions are sizzling on the grill and the aroma is like a magnet to those with or without hunger. The smells are compelling, demanding you eat something. When I have that urge to eat on the midway my first inclination is to feel my pocket and make sure I have an adequate supply of “Rolaids.” If I have at least a half roll of my favorite antacids I am good to go and I am on the hunt for food I would never let my wife see me consume. These smells are what lured me into this industry. My profession was originally secondary to the smells associated with the carnival industry.
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remember my first venture onto a carnival midway. I was a boy living in
I have been asked this question a hundred times; is a carnival or a fixed site theme park safer? I have answered the same way for a hundred times. I do not know the answer. Industry personnel have argued this age old question since I have been in the amusement business. The carnival side of the argument highlights the fact that the rides are assembled and disassembled at each location numerous times per season and that affords an opportunity to inspect the ride with greater frequency and view components not typically accessible. Fixed site parks counter with their rides are not transported being subjected to road shipping damage and less mistakes are likely because they don’t assemble and disassemble the ride often. Both sides of the issues are plausible; however, there is not any definitive proof either way that I am aware of that confirms either is correct. There are too many unknown factors to make a determination comparing the safety of carnivals to theme parks.
Repetitive use, environmental exposures, vibration, and inadequate maintenance will take their toll on mechanical devices resulting in component deterioration. Improper and inadequate training are key factors in carnival safety; employee turnover increases the challenges associated with training operators and maintenance personnel.
Inspections that are to include daily, weekly, monthly and annual reviews should be conducted as per prevailing standards. It must be noted inspections are only as good as the person performing them and are only valid at the time they occur. Operating conditions change rapidly in this industry.
What can a rider do to evaluate the safety of a ride? Other that observation not a lot can be done. At the very least a potential rider should observe the operator; are they attentive to the ride and its riders? Do they check each restraint on every passenger before operating the ride? Do they watch the ride while in operation maintaining their position at the control panel? What does your gut instinct tell you? Does the ride appear well maintained? Is there rust all over the ride? Is the padding ripped and torn? Are components of the ride bent, crimped, or otherwise damaged? Do restraints appear worn, tattered or loose? Are the ride rules and instructions signs posted? Does the sign language appear to match the ride it is posted in front of? What are people saying when they exit the ride? Is the music so loud that an appeal for help would go unnoticed? Is there a current operating permit posted on the ride? These are a few basic areas riders can generally evaluate to make a personal determination on whether to ride or not. All of these areas can appear to be OK and a failure can continue to occur. There will always be some level of risk associated with anything in motion.
Riders should also follow the riding rules and be attentive to instructions and safety messages. Everyone has a role in promoting a safe ride experience.