How safe are the rides at the State Fair?

FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) — The wild rides of the State Fair of West Virginia are a tradition at the event. But how safe are they?

The answer is: incredibly safe!

Most of the rides arrive anywhere from a week to ten days ahead of the start of the fair in order for them to be completely laid out and inspected.

Jeff Alberts is a licensed ride inspector through the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials in addition to being the Safety Coordinator and Ride Supervisor for the fair.

He said these rides are the safest you will find.

“We’re taking our time, going through them, little extra time. But it’s something that we do all the time. A lot of people get that misconception that they’re “thrown up”. They’re portable rides, they’re meant to be set up and tore down every week, so that misconception is, you know, something we’d like to change.” said Alberts.

Alberts said not only do they inspect the rides, but the state also sends out inspectors who give every ride a thorough inspection.

The State Fair of West Virginia staff also has a third-party inspection company come out and give each ride a third nonbiased inspection as well.

So, when you are standing in line for the Wild Mouse this year, just know that you’re in good hands.

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