DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – The State Fair of Texas is officially underway and millions of people are expected to attend over the next three-and-a-half weeks.
2.4 million people attended the Fair last year and spent a record $56 million dollars on food and rides.
This year is no different except for the fact that a fatal accident after a ride malfunctioned at the Ohio State Fair in July has many thinking about ride safety.
The Fair’s Vice President of Operation’s Rusty Fitzgerald said patrons shouldn’t worry about is ride safety at the State Fair of Texas because each ride goes through a rigorous process.
“Our inspection process actually started months ago. I have eight ride inspectors on property. Now, these ride inspectors are all certified and it’s what they do professionally,” he said.
Fitzgerald said the Fair goes above and beyond to set extremely high standards for safety on top of what the state requires.
“We probably have the best standards in the industry. We use ultrasound testing where I am going in looking at metals on rides. Especially critical components, looking at the thickness and see if there’s any basically air pockets in the middle of it, ” he said.
Those inspections will continue throughout the length of the Fair. The attention to detail is extended to the ride operators as well.
Fitzgerald said anyone working a ride seen using a cell phone will be removed immediately.
One person was killed and several were injured when the “Fire Ball” ride at Ohio’s State Fair malfunctioned and experts said it was caused by excessive corrosion. Fitzgerald said the incident sent shock waves through the industry.
“Basically, when something like that happens it kind of opens your eyes and you go out and look to ensure that something like that doesn’t or can’t happen here,” he said.
Another aspect of the Fair that is different from last year is the tribute to the victims of Hurricane Harvey.
Big Texas is wearing a “Texas Strong” patch and patrons can purchase similar buttons at the Fair’s official merchandise stands.
Each button costs $2 and proceeds will go toward relief efforts. This woman said she is not surprised by the fundraiser because that’s what she feels Texas is about.
“It’s all Texans coming together. I mean, Texas is family,” she said.
The Fair runs through October 22nd.
Copyright 2017. WBAP/KLIF News. All Rights Reserved.
