Ride deaths rare, but they do happen
The death of Abiah Jones is the first fatality at Morey's Piers since 1995, when Dallas White, a 33-year-old maintenance worker, was hit in the head by the foot of a passenger on the park's Great Nor'Easter roller coaster.
"This story has been corrected. The number of fatalities at amusement parks nationally in 2008 and 2009 was reported incorrectly."
The death of Abiah Jones is the first fatality at Morey's Piers since 1995, when Dallas White, a 33-year-old maintenance worker, was hit in the head by the foot of a passenger on the park's Great Nor'Easter roller coaster.
There were 1,181 ride-related injuries reported in 2009 and 1,523 in 2008.
The report was prepared by the National Safety Council. Data from 2010 is not yet available.
According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, the number of fatalities each year is so low that the group doesn't keep track, but based on news reports there are an average of 3 fatalities out of the 1.7 billion rides taken in the U.S. annually.
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions offers these tips on staying safe at amusement parks:
* Obey listed age, height, weight, and health restrictions.
* Observe all posted ride-safety rules. Keep hands, arms, legs and feet inside the ride at all times.
* Remain seated in the ride until it comes to a complete stop and you are instructed to exit.
* Follow all verbal instructions given by ride operators or provided by recorded announcements.
* Always use safety equipment provided and never attempt to wriggle free of or loosen restraints or other safety devices.
* Parents with young children should make sure that their children understand safe and appropriate ride behavior.
* Never force anyone, especially children, to ride attractions they don't want to ride.
* If you see any unsafe behavior or condition on a ride, report it to a supervisor or manager immediately.
- Phillip Lucas