Safety Tips for Families Visiting Theme Parks

With summer travel season on the horizon, countless families will flock to theme parks across the country, resulting in millions of visits annually. Parents will be managing children, phones, snacks, strollers, and crowds—sometimes alongside concerns about just how safe the experience really is.

While safety at theme parks isn’t always top of mind for most visitors, tragic incidents tend to bring it into focus. Although rare, injuries and even fatalities can occur at amusement parks every year.

Though severe accidents make the headlines, the risks at theme parks extend beyond just the rides themselves.

Before heading out to a theme park with your family, here’s what you need to know about the current state of theme park safety, along with helpful tips to navigate the most common risks and concerns.

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Are theme park rides safe?

How much should you really worry about safety at your local theme park?

Industry representatives often emphasize that theme parks are incredibly safe due to stringent regulations and the industry's strong focus on safety. Recent research by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions shows that the chance of a serious injury on a fixed-site ride at a U.S. amusement park is roughly 1 in 15.5 million rides.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that not all theme park-style rides are regulated equally. Visitors may want to take the regulatory environment into account when selecting which parks and attractions to visit.

Fixed-site theme parks, such as those operated by Disney, Universal, Cedar Fair, and Six Flags, are subject to much more extensive safety oversight.

Although there is no federal body overseeing theme park safety in the U.S., most states (except Alabama, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, Wyoming, and Utah) have their own agencies dedicated to park regulation. Depending on the state's legal framework, these agencies may conduct inspections, issue permits, approve staff training, and gather accident data.

Fixed-site parks also take part in voluntary injury and accident reporting, gathering data more systematically. For example, IAAPA members are required to report all incidents to the association, which then publishes detailed annual reports accessible to the public.

Traveling fairs and carnivals that feature rides are far less likely to undergo regular inspections or safety monitoring.

Although millions of people safely enjoy these attractions every year, only a few states have strict regulations in place. Many of these attractions may only be inspected once a year, despite being disassembled, transported, and reassembled multiple times annually.

Some states, like California, regulate both fixed-site parks and traveling fairs under a single framework, such as Cal/OSHA’s Amusement Ride and Tramway Unit. However, this is more of an exception than the standard.

Essential safety tips for your theme park vacation

Theme parks are statistically very safe for visitors of all ages. Here are eight practical safety tips to ensure your family enjoys a worry-free theme park experience.

Prepare for the possibility of temporarily losing sight of a child

A common concern for parents at theme parks is losing track of their young children.

With the overwhelming distractions of a crowded park, it only takes a second to lose sight of your child. I recall a moment at Disneyland when I lost track of my 5-year-old daughter for about 90 seconds—it felt like an eternity.

Having a plan in place is key. Before heading to a theme park, talk with your child about what to do if they become lost or separated from the family. When my family enters a park, we always identify a staff member in uniform, so my kids know who they can approach for help. For example, at Disney parks, every cast member wears a name tag with the same shape, making it easier for children to recognize them.

For younger children who may not be able to remember your phone number, consider adding identifying information to their clothing or accessories. Products like travel ID bracelets and temporary tattoos can display your contact details, helping park staff reunite lost children with their families.

Adhere to ride safety rules

We've all heard it before: "For your safety, please remain seated with your hands, arms, feet, and legs inside the vehicle." While these safety instructions may sound repetitive, they are essential for your protection.

Following safety guidelines and teaching your children why they matter is the simplest way to prevent accidents. According to Susan Storey, IAAPA’s director of communications, "Park visitors must remember that safety is a shared responsibility between the park and the guest."

Many families with young children encounter height restrictions for rides. Be sure to measure your child before your trip and review the height requirements listed on the park's website, so you know which attractions are suitable for them. Avoid trying to circumvent the system—it exists to keep your child safe. By preparing in advance, you'll avoid the frustration of being turned away at the ride entrance due to height limits.

Also, keep weight and size limits in mind. While theme parks now cater to a variety of body types, each ride has its own specifications. If a park offers test seats, use them before you get in line if you're unsure whether someone in your group will fit comfortably and safely.

Be aware of additional ride restrictions, such as those related to heart conditions or neck and back problems. Every year, there are heartbreaking stories of individuals who suffer heart-related issues shortly after riding an attraction. Pregnant guests may also face unique concerns at theme parks.

It's always better to be cautious than regretful, so if you're uncertain whether a ride is right for you, it's best to skip it.

Put down your devices

Speaking of following safety guidelines, it seems like everyone is trying to get that perfect theme park selfie while riding the roller coaster. Please—just don’t.

Phones can quickly turn into dangerous projectiles, risking harm to others on the ride. If you have tweens or teens with phones, make sure to discuss this rule before your visit—especially if they’re old enough to ride without adult supervision.

Many theme parks offer lockers where riders can store their phones and other belongings. Alternatively, you can leave your items with a friend or family member who prefers to stay off the ride. If you must bring your phone on a thrill ride, take precautions to secure it. Some parks even screen for devices at the entrance using metal detectors to ensure no phones are taken aboard the rides.

If you notice something, speak up

While theme parks strive to minimize risks, employees are human and can sometimes overlook things.

On a recent visit, a friend noticed a ride operator had forgotten to check the restraints on one row of a roller coaster during boarding. If you spot something like this, don’t hesitate to speak up. A few extra seconds to ensure safety is always worth it.

Take breaks, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen

The physical activity and sun exposure during a day at the theme park can pose serious health risks.

During my last visit to Disneyland, I walked over 31,000 steps in a single day—roughly equivalent to running a half marathon. Most people don't walk anywhere near that much in their daily routine. Walking for 12 to 14 hours straight can be exhausting for even the fittest individuals. This can be especially tough for younger and older guests, or anyone more prone to fatigue, particularly during the hot summer months.

When it comes to footwear, make smart choices. Flip-flops aren't ideal for navigating crowded streets or dodging stroller wheels. Comfortable, broken-in shoes that fit well (kids’ feet grow so quickly!) are crucial to avoid painful blisters or worse.

When planning a family trip to a theme park, it's important to take things slow. Remember to stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade or indoors during the hottest parts of the day, and don’t forget your sunscreen, hats, and other sun protection.

It's possible to get a severe sunburn even in winter.

Don’t force your kids to go on rides they’re not comfortable with

Parents need to assess when their children are ready for more intense, fast-paced rides. While it can be beneficial to encourage kids to step out of their comfort zone, forcing them onto a ride they’re afraid of, especially when they’re not emotionally ready, can be both unsafe and unwise.

"We’ve seen too many times at parks where parents push their children onto rides, insisting they'll be fine once they try it. Fear and anxiety can cause children to panic during the ride, potentially leading to injury. Parents should always listen to their children and support them in riding only what they feel ready for," says Storey.

Take extra care when enjoying water attractions

As a parent, water parks are the scariest when it comes to safety. While they’re typically staffed with skilled lifeguards and equipped with extensive safety measures, water always carries a certain degree of unpredictability.

If you're planning to visit a water park, take extra safety precautions.

Be sure to carefully evaluate your children's swimming abilities. Plan your visit around the attractions, slides, and water features that match their skills. Check in advance to see if life jackets are available (and whether they fit properly). If the park’s options don't meet your needs, bring your own. Make sure younger children wear them at all times, even if they don't always need them at your local pool.

If you're concerned about safety, consider avoiding busy wave pools and lazy rivers. Always keep younger children within arm's reach in the water, and encourage older kids to stick together using a buddy system. Never rely solely on lifeguards to monitor your child. The idea of shared responsibility for safety between park staff and visitors is crucial.

Know your exits

While it’s unlikely you’ll need to rush out of a theme park, emergencies can happen, and navigating through a panicked crowd is never ideal.

It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the nearest exits or safe areas away from large crowds (or even a storm). Theme parks have plans for evacuating or sheltering guests in case of an emergency, so be prepared to follow staff instructions in those rare situations.

The takeaway

Overall, theme parks are a fantastic and safe choice for a family getaway. With some thoughtful planning, visitors can maximize their safety during the trip. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring both you and your children stay safe, whether you're cruising on a gentle boat ride or taking on the most thrilling roller coasters.

Planning a trip to a theme park soon? Here are a few articles that might interest you:

• Unusual US theme parks you must visit
• 11 local theme parks that offer just as much fun as the big names
• 8 tips to make the most of your theme park experience
• New theme parks and attractions opening in 2022
• 10 money-saving tips for Disney World
• Complete guide to Universal Orlando
• Everything you need to know about Disneyland

Leslie Harvey is a mother of two who blogs at Trips With Tykes. She co-hosts the podcast Disney Deciphered and co-manages the Disneyland planning Facebook group, Disneyland with Kids.