Hey everyone, I've been MIA for awhile and I apologize wholeheartedly. This post is long overdue. I planned on posting it in September, but things came up. Over the summer I worked as a ride operator, sounds exciting right? It was definitely a unique experience. I met people from all over the world, both fellow workers and guests at the park. Being on the other side of the theme park setting, working the rides rather than enjoying them, I noticed quite a few things that I'd like to share with you guys. Please be aware of these thoughts the next time you're at an amusement park.
1. Do not argue with the ride operator if your child is denied access to a ride.
Ride operators are not denying your child access to a ride because they don't like the way your child looks. They have your children's safety in mind. Your child is probably being denied because they are too short, too tall, or don't have the right amount of tickets/valid wristband. Do not argue with the ride operator. Ultimately, the ride is under their jurisdiction and if they feel your child's safety is on the line, they have every right to turn them away. Also, don't try to get onto a ride for free if they use tickets! The money made from ticket sales is used to fund the park and the workers. This is someone's business, how would you feel being cheated out of money? My best advice is to check the postings near the entrance of the ride that tells you how tall the child should be and medical information that may prohibit them from safely enjoying the ride. That way, you do not have to wait on line for an hour only to be told that your child can't go on the ride.
2. If the Ride Operator tells you to keep your hands inside the ride, do it.
I won't link any videos but if you search it on youtube you can find several accidents on rides. If a ride operator is telling you to do something, or not do something, heed their warning. You are riding in a metal contraption, and while it is usually safe and ride operators are trained to step in if danger ensues, it can be dangerous. You're told to keep your hands in for a reason. Whether it be to protect the other riders in front of you, keep your body parts in tact or keep the ride in it's best shape, it is always with your safety in mind!
3. Don't talk to a ride operator while the ride is in motion.
If something happens to the ride and the operator isn't paying attention, they won't be able to step in and fix it in time. The ride operator must watch the ride at all times in order to ensure things run smoothly, please do not distract them.
4. Do not stand anywhere near the ride operator's control panel or seat.
I absolutely hated when people did this. Sometimes I was assigned to a ride in which there was an umbrella covering the area near the control panel. It was extremely sunny out and I understand that some people may want to avoid the sun, but there will most likely be umbrellas scattered all over the park. Do not stand in the area designated for the ride operator. Their job is much harder than yours. You may be waiting for your child to get off the ride but the ride operator is there FOR HOURS, sometimes the entire day. I worked ten hour shifts on some days, is it too much to ask for some personal space? It should also be a given not to sit in their seat. Why is it fair for them to be uncomfortable, when they're already giving up their summer to make yours enjoyable?
5. Do not try to convince the operator to wait for family members to get off other rides before they start their ride.
It is unfair for those already waiting on line. Your child is not special. They have to wait on the line with everyone else. The person behind you paid just as much as you did for your ticket so please have some common courtesy.
6. Warn the ride operator of any problem your child may have before they are loaded into the ride.
The ride operator will be more than happy to accommodate a child with special needs. If you'd like to buckle your own child in, ask the ride operator. Just please be wary to let them know before they your child's group into the ride. Otherwise the ride operator will be checking the seatbelts of the kids already on the ride and you trying to talk to them will make them distracted. For the safety of those riding the rides, it is important for the ride operator to be focused on one task at a time.
7. Do not be embarrassed to ask for help.
Ride operators are there to help you. If you think your seatbelt isn't on right, let them know. We're all humans and humans make mistakes. If you feel like they didn't securely fasten your belt do not be embarrassed to tell them. Alo, do not assume that they fastened you in the right way. Due to the magnitude of people on the ride, it is possible that the ride operator makes a mistake. It is not often but it can happen. You know better than anyone else how you feel and it will only take a second for the ride operator to double check. They will never take your safety lightly.
7. Always be courteous to the ride operator.
Sometimes a simple thank you will brighten their day. After countless hours of loading your child or you on the ride, buckling them up, starting the ride and then unbuckling them when it's over, the ride operator will most likely be stressed. Remember, even though they are getting paid, they are giving up their summer to help you enjoy yours. Ride operating is much different than other jobs. They are working longer hours and more days to make the summer season spectacular. A "thank you" will mean all the difference.
Thank you for reading and don't be afraid to leave a comment! What are some theme park experiences you've had?
No comments:
Post a Comment