July 6, 2010
Summer is here and you have promised the kids a trip to a theme park. Although you are looking forward to hours of fun with your children, you worry about how you are going to keep them safe while you are there. With a little forethought and planning, you and your children can have a safe and enjoyable day at the amusement park.
Before you leave, update your InstantAmber profile. In the event your child goes missing, law enforcement officials will have access to your child’s information at a moment’s notice. Don’t let the belief “it won’t happen to me” get in the way of protecting your children.
Secondly, make a safety plan with your family before you leave. Decide what you will do if you become separated, and make sure your older children have a park map with them. Many theme park websites contain downloadable maps you can print at home. You may want to circle your meeting place on the map, and then locate it as soon as you get to the park so they know where to go. Also familiarize them with the information centers, security areas, and medical facilities. If your child carries a cell phone, make sure it is charged and that your numbers and the emergency numbers of the park are programmed.
You may also want to check Theme Park Insider’s Accident Watch website, a user-updated incident reporting page where you can find out safety issues at theme parks across the nation. You can browse recent theme park accident reports or make a report of your own if you experience a safety issue during your visit.
If you are traveling with several children of differing ages, you may want to use the “buddy system” - having an older child (at least thirteen years of age) hold hands and keep track of a younger sibling. This should be used only as back up for direct parental supervision as even teenagers can get side tracked with the excitement of an amusement park.
Little ones are likely to need a stroller or to ride in a backpack, but they will inevitably want down to walk occasionally. There are clever leash-like devices that can help you keep track of them without making them - or you - feel conspicuous, but there is really very little room for self-consciousness when it comes to the safety of your child.
The following tips will help you keep your children and your possessions safe while you are having fun:
No running allowed! Theme parks will be jammed with other tourists during your visit. Allowing your children to run could jeopardize their safety and the safety of others around you.
Avoid excessive sun exposure. Your children should use sunscreen containing both UBA & UVB protectants and wear a hat. Take frequent breaks out of the sun, and drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.
Follow the rules. Adhere to written, verbal and audio directions. Do not attempt to cheat the height requirements. Not only does this set a bad example, but the height requirement are there for your child’s safety and ignoring them could lead to serious injury or death. Do not let your children sit or hang on ropes, chains and railings while waiting in line and instruct them to keep their bodies in the ride at all times. Assist them in fastening their safety harnesses.
Do not allow your child to go on a ride if he is unwell. The ride won’t be fun for anyone if your child isn’t feeling well and could result in unfortunate accidents that could effect other park patrons.
Do not force your child to ride if he is afraid. You might believe he will enjoy it if you make him give the ride a try, but people around you won’t appreciate it, and your child could endanger himself trying to leave the ride.
Keep an eye on your belongings. Becoming a theft victim will put a damper on your fun and could even prematurely end your day, especially if your wallet is stolen. Do not let your or your children’s possessions get away from you.
Watch your children. Accompany them to food lines, restrooms and gift shops.
By following these tips, your trip to the theme park will be a safe and happy one for the entire family. Take the time now to sign up for InstantAmber so you will be prepared in the event you have a child emergency during your next outing!
Sources:
Disney report on safety: http://a.dolimg.com/safety/Safety_Report.pdf
