Roller Coaster Temporarily Halted After Visitor Notices Scary Crack

A recent incident at a North Carolina amusement park has highlighted the importance of safety in theme park rides, particularly on a roller coaster. Fury 325, touted as the “tallest, fastest, longest roller coaster in North America,” was temporarily shut down after visitors noticed a crack in its support beam.¹ The closure has raised questions about the safety measures in place for amusement park rides and the procedures followed to ensure the well-being of park guests.

Carowinds amusement park temporarily but officially closed its renowned roller coaster, Fury 325, after guests posted photos and videos showing a significant crack in its support beam. The crack was visible and appeared to move when the ride was in progress. The park’s maintenance team promptly initiated an inspection, and the ride will remain closed until repairs are completed.²

The Importance of Safety in Theme Park Rides

Safety is paramount in the amusement park industry, and park authorities prioritize the well-being of their guests. Carowinds emphasized that safety is their top priority and assured visitors that all rides, including Fury 325, undergo daily inspections to ensure proper functioning and structural integrity. The incident at Carowinds highlights the effectiveness of these safety protocols, as the crack was detected before any accidents occurred.

A North Carolina amusement park closed one of its roller coasters Friday after a crack was found on a support beam.

According to news reports, Carowinds shut down its Fury 325 ride. The park claims it’s the “tallest, fastest, longest giga coaster in North America.” pic.twitter.com/DNWTdxKGQm

— The Associated Press (@AP) July 3, 2023

Understanding Roller Coaster Safety Measures

Roller coasters employ various safety measures to ensure a secure and thrilling experience for riders. Let’s explore some key components:

Lift Hill

Roller coasters use chain lifts or launches to generate energy for the ride.³ Chain lifts involve a large metal chain that pulls the coaster cars up the hill. Launches use magnets, compressed air, or hydraulic systems to accelerate the train.

Brakes

Roller coasters have with different types of brakes to control speed and facilitate safe stops. Fin brakes and magnetic brakes are the most common. Fin brakes slow the train by clamping onto fins attached to the coaster car, while magnetic brakes create a magnetic field to gradually reduce speed.

Read: 14-Year-Old Boy’s Harness Was Still Locked After Fatal Fall from Amusement Park Ride: Accident Report

Block Brake System

Coasters employ a block brake system to prevent collisions between trains. Sensors placed around the track provide information to the coaster’s programmable logic controller (PLC) about the train’s location. Multiple PLCs ensure redundancy, and any disagreement between them halts the ride. Block zones, each with brakes, divide the coaster’s circuit, allowing multiple trains to operate simultaneously.

Regulations and Inspections

Theme parks are subject to strict regulations and inspections to ensure the safety of their rides. The North Carolina Department of Labor’s Elevator and Amusement Device Bureau is investigating the incident at Carowinds. This government agency oversees inspections and gathers information to assess the safety of amusement rides. It collaborates with park authorities to address any issues promptly.⁴

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) plays a crucial role in promoting safety within the industry. The IAAPA states that providing safe and secure attractions is a commitment of all leaders in the amusement park industry. The organization also highlighted the low number of injuries reported per million rides, indicating that roller coasters are generally safe.

The Overall Safety of Roller Coasters

Roller coasters are meticulously designed, built, and maintained to ensure the safety of riders. The incident at Carowinds, while concerning, demonstrates that safety protocols are effective in identifying and addressing potential risks. The amusement park industry constantly strives to improve safety measures and provides guests with thrilling experiences without compromising their well-being.

Conclusion

The incident at Carowinds amusement park, where Fury 325, the tallest and fastest giga coaster in North America, temporarily closed due to a crack in its support beam, serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in theme park rides. Theme parks, including Carowinds, implement comprehensive safety protocols, conduct regular inspections, and adhere to regulations enforced by government agencies such as the North Carolina Department of Labor. Roller coasters, in particular, incorporate various safety measures like lift systems, brakes, and block brake systems to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for riders.

While incidents like the one at Carowinds are rare, they highlight the vigilance and commitment of theme park authorities in maintaining the safety of their attractions. The amusement park industry, supported by organizations like the IAAPA, continuously works to enhance safety standards and ensure the well-being of guests. Roller coasters have multiple layers of safety features that undergo regular inspections and maintenance.

As visitors plan their trips to amusement parks, it is important to remember that these incidents are isolated occurrences. The focus on safety within the industry and the dedication of park authorities to maintaining the structural integrity of their rides ensure that the overall risk associated with roller coasters remains minimal. With efforts to improve safety protocols and regulations, theme park enthusiasts can continue to enjoy thrilling experiences with confidence in the industry’s commitment to guest safety.

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