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Proof of a Maxim: Safety and Attendance

Opinion

Who said that parks have no motivation to keep their rides safe? Have you seen the recent news from Six Flags? Company executives admit that attendance and revenue at Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington declined after the July death of Rosa Esparza after she fell from the Texas Giant Roller Coaster.

(See Attendance, revenue down at Six Flags after woman’s death on Texas Giant)

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Amusement and theme park business people have long stated that if amusement rides are not safe, people will stay away from that park or operator so it is in the best interests of the park or operators to have its rides operate as safely as possible. Now there exists documented proof for the maxim. Six Flags Over Texas was the only Six Flags park that saw a decline in attendance the last quarter as patrons became apprehensive of attending the park, especially right after the accident. According to the comments of Jim Reid-Anderson, he stated the there clearly was an impact on attendance due to the accident and that Six Flags have seen steady attendance improvement as time has gone on.

Safety first is not just an empty mantra for the amusement industry but it can and does have a powerful effect on the bottom line of your business. Park and ride patrons become hesitant to conduct business with you if you are unable to provide them safe entertainment for the money they spend. In addition to the initial drop in attendance, you may need to spend unplanned time and money in legal strategies and legal costs. Dealing with accidents does nothing but take your eyes off of the reason why you are in business, provide people a fun time while making a living. Don’t take my word for it, but take the word of one of the largest amusement chains in the world.

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