(NAPSA)—In 2001, more people visited theme parks and amusement parks throughout the world than ever before. In the U.S. alone, over 319 million people packed the nation’s 450 amusement parks, and millions more visited its numerousotherattractions. According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), families will have even more exciting places to visit this year, with the opening of such attractionsas: H2Oasis—Alaska’s first (and only) indoor water park, complete with a wave pool, pirate ship and watercoaster. Delirium—North America’s first pendulum ride that will send 82 riders spinning deliriously— their legs dangling freely—at the end of a giant arm that swings 65 feet high. (At Paramount’s Great America, Santa Anna, Calif.) Big Bad John—A runaway minetrain rollercoaster on a halfmile of steel track that cuts loose from its mine shaft and careens through a newly wooded ravine. (At Magic Springs and Crystal Falls, Hot Springs, Ark.) * Roller Soaker—An aerial water ride with squirt guns, water sprayers and squirting geysers. (At Hersheypark, Hershey, Pa.) X—The world’s first fourthdimensionalrollercoaster. Riders race in prototype vehicles that spin independently, 360 forwards and backwards on a separate axis for 24% minutes, at speeds reaching 76 mphalong a 3,600-ft. twisting steel maze. (At Six Flags California, Valencia, Calif.) Whentraveling to these or any other amusementparksor attractions, you can makeyourvisit a safe and fun one by following these safety tips: Dress comfortably, but avoid open-toed shoes, dangling clothing and jewelry. Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and headgear, even on cloudy days. * Observe all rules that are posted at each attraction, and follow the verbal instructions given by ride operators. 7 ands Wa “Safety first” is an important rule to keep in mind when exploring amusementparks. Obey listed age, height, and weight restrictions, as well as those concerning health matters such as heart conditions, back/neck trouble, pregnancy, recent surgery and high blood pressure. Keep your hands, arms, legs, and feet inside the ride at all times, and remain in the ride until it comes to a complete stop and you are instructed by a ride operator to exit the ride. If a personal item falls outside the vehicle while you’re on the ride, do not try to retrieve it yourself, instead, ask the ride operator for assistance after you have exited from theride. Always use the safety equipment provided on a ride and do not attempt to wriggle free of the seat belts or other restraints in search of a “bigger thrill” or the opportunity to showoff. Parents must take an active safety role with their young children; observe the ride in operation first to ensure that your child can ride it safely and then explain to your child about the appropriate behavior on ride. * Don’t overeat or consume a significant amountof alcohol prior to riding. Stop riding before you become excessively tired. JAAPAis the largest interna- tional trade association for permanently situated amusementfacilities worldwide. The organization represents over 5,000 facility, supplier, and individual members from more than 100 countries. To learn more, visit www.iaapa.org.
