WATER-PARK SAFETY

For many families, warm weather calls for a visit to a water park. Water-park operators have been trying to improve ride construction, safety equipment, and rider restrictions to provide consumers as safe and exciting an experience as possible.

Although owners oppose federal oversight of safety regulations and reporting, some legislators seek to give the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) authority over theme parks. CPSC estimates show that up to 54,000 park guests received emergency-room treatment for injuries between 1997 and 2002. Fewer than two percent of the injured were admitted for hospitalization. However, when relatively infrequent injuries do occur, they may often be extensive.

Low Water Level
When the raft she rode in dropped suddenly, a park patron sustained whiplash and a severe knee injury. Her attorney demonstrated that the pool designed to cushion the drop of the raft she rode in had too low a water level. The park operator agreed to pay medical costs and damages.

Water-park safety

• Patronize parks that provide adequate lifeguard supervision.
• Obey all rules and directions.
• Teach children to swim.
• Wear Coast Guard-approved flotation equipment.
• Anticipate changing water depths.
• Use water slides and other attractions properly.