Vacations are the best times of our lives and we live for them. Whenever families come to Central Florida they always go home with memories to last a lifetime. The only thing folks seem to forget is that when vacationing everyone seems to let their guard down and forget that accidents can still happen even at one of the happiest times.
The parks in Orlando have many years of professional experience, studies, engineering, and safety measures designed to keep everyone safe. They post rules for those with disabilities, physical or health conditions, height limitations, or pregnant mothers. Often, people ignore the rules and increase their possibilities of getting injured. Please follow the rules. They are there for good reasons. The fact is some rides are not good for you or your kids. They may be too fast, to rough, or not made for small kids. Kids who are too small for a ride will be turned away and if there is any question, there are always measuring poles at the ride entrances.
Although most parents want to anyway, you should ride with your kids every chance you get. Keep them toward the middle of the ride or at least away from latches or straps where they could inadvertently unlock something. Talk to them before boarding. Parents know that kids get excited and will throw caution to the wind so it's good to remind them this is more than a regular playground!
Also, the rides aren't the only hazards. Play places at the parks are safety marvels but a fall is still a fall. Another thing to watch out for is kids getting squashed when walking with a big crowd especially in the summer when the population swells and everybody is taking up every inch of walking space.
Be aware of wheelchairs, strollers, and hoverounds. The theme parks are handicapped friendly and there are many motorized carts so watch out for people backing or trying to maneuver in tight spaces.
Unfortunately, where there are lots of vacationers, there can also be predators. Keep an eye on your kids at all times and don't let kids watch kids. My kids are teenagers and I just now feel comfortable letting them go to another ride without me. They have to stay together and keep in touch with me by cell phone. We establish where and when we meet again and don't let them be away from you for too long. If they get lost or someone makes them uncomfortable teach them to go immediately to an employee who is dressed in uniform. Of course, all the parks have security officers and they are the preferred choice but they cover large areas and aren't always readily accessible.
Above all, don't go into restricted areas, unlighted areas, or places that are unpopulated, especially when returning to off-site hotels or restaurants.
Parents already know these things. I mention them because we think about having good times and can let our guard down. There are people who know this about vacationers and will take advantage of it. We need our visitors in Florida and take their safety seriously so use caution and have a great summer.
