NC State Fair Ride Halts Mid-Air, Stranding Riders 100 Feet High
During the North Carolina State Fair, an incident involving the ride known as The Vertigo left several riders suspended 100 feet in the air. This stoppage was attributed to a low-voltage issue that activated the ride’s safety mechanisms.
Details of the Incident
The malfunction occurred on Thursday afternoon, prompting fear among those onboard. One rider, Hannah Norris, described her terrifying experience, noting her immediate thoughts were of dropping from the height. Accompanied by her son Liam, she recited prayers while waiting for assistance.
Safety Measures in Action
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture confirmed that the ride halted automatically as intended due to the voltage fault. Spokesperson Heather Overton stated that the safety system functioned effectively, ensuring riders were not in jeopardy. Emergency procedures allowed for a controlled stop, enabling the safe evacuation of all individuals from the ride within 45 minutes.
Post-Incident Actions
- The ride was reset promptly and approved for immediate operation.
- Those stranded can reach out to the ride’s management for a complimentary ride as compensation.
Inspection Protocols for Fair Rides
Prior to the fair’s opening, inspectors from the North Carolina Department of Labor thoroughly evaluated nearly 100 rides. Regulations in North Carolina stipulate that portable rides must undergo inspections whenever relocated to a new site.
Historical Context of Ride Safety
Ride safety at the fair has been a topic of concern in the past. For instance, an incident on October 24, 2013, involved The Vortex ride, where five individuals were seriously injured. The ride moved unexpectedly while passengers were disembarking, resulting in injuries from a drop of 20 feet. Subsequent investigations revealed that safety mechanisms had been tampered with, leading to arrests of those responsible.
Overall, while the incident with The Vertigo raised alarms, safety protocols ensured that no one was harmed, highlighting the importance of ongoing vigilance and adherence to regulations at amusement events.
