News of the tragic accident at Dreamworld on Australia’s Gold Coast has brought theme park safety to the forefront of the world’s conscience. Parks are places for fun with family and friends and there are plenty of health benefits to your visit (hello adrenaline and facing fears!) as well as a brilliant day to remember, but no adventurous day comes without some level of risk.

Accidents are rare, and there is an approximate 1 in 24 million chance of sustaining injuries that require hospitalization while at a theme park. We’ve compiled a list of things you can do to help keep yourself and others as safe as possible while enjoying your day out.

1: Know and follow park rules

It might seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t know the general park rules of places they visit. These rules are in place to keep you safe, and most are available online, so you can check them out before even setting foot in the park. Keep an eye out for signs and notices around the park, they’re there for a reason.

2: Take control of your own safety

Parks have ride attendants to make sure that everything runs smoothly, and to ensure the rides and riders are safe, but that doesn’t mean that there is zero risk involved. When you decide to go on a ride, you’re also agreeing to take responsibility for your actions and safety. If you feel unsafe, speak up. If the harness doesn’t feel right, or the belt is loose, tell the attendant. If you feel unwell, or think that the ride make have a negative effect, ask questions or stay clear of the ride all together. You’re there to have fun, but you know yourself best.

3: Appropriate rides

Height and age restrictions are necessary, don’t ignore them. If a child is required to be accompanied by an adult, it is so that they are with someone who understands and can help them follow the rules and safety. Educate your children on ride safety as much as you can, simple things like keeping their arms inside the ride and not moving from their seat til told to do so will make a huge difference.

4: Watch for signs of distress and health issues

Any ride can be scary, but some people can suffer health effects after the ride is over. If you notice sudden mood changes, onset of nausea, dizziness, numbness, shortness of breath, or anything else that is out of character or makes you uneasy, see the park’s first aid crew. Many of these symptoms don’t last long, nor to they often cause serious harm, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and then you can all continue to enjoy your day!

5: Stay Hydrated

Again, it seems like a no-brainer, but rides and excitement, coupled with sunshine and walking about can really dehydrate you. If you can’t take water into the park yourself, be sure to stock up on plenty when you first get there.

6: Have a plan

Things can get a little crazy at theme parks, so it’s great if you have some kind of game plan. Most places hand out maps, and you can access them online as well, making it easy to organize your day. Take breaks after adrenaline heavy rides and make time to eat, rest and explore the other parts of the park. No one likes to go home without souvenirs!

It’s not something many think of when heading out for a day of fun at the park, but having an emergency strategy is super important. Theme parks get very busy, and people can get lost in the excitement. Decide on a meeting place at the beginning of the day, and keep an eye out for emergency exits, it’ll make things much more simple if someone is lost or things don’t go to plan.

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