A mother and daughter from Arizona had a scary experience at SeaWorld San Diego while riding the Electric Eel roller coaster. Salina Higgins shared that her daughter’s shoulder strap came loose during the ride, causing a frightening moment while they were upside down. Despite her efforts to secure the strap, she felt that the staff did not take her concerns seriously and eventually escorted her family off the property.
Higgins took to social media to share her story, which gained significant attention online. She also provided pictures of the disclaimers posted outside the ride, emphasizing the importance of holding on tight and remaining seated with the comfort collar secured. While SeaWorld offered free passes and reimbursement for their tickets, Higgins turned down the compensation, expressing her concern about the safety of the ride.
SeaWorld defended their safety measures, stating that the comfort collar is not a restraining device but rather for rider comfort. They assured that the lap bar and shin bar, which are the actual restraining devices, remained secure during the ride. The company also mentioned that all rides are inspected daily to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is currently investigating the incident to determine if there were any safety violations. SeaWorld reiterated its commitment to safety and maintained that there was no safety concern during the roller coaster ride.
Despite SeaWorld’s reassurances, Higgins remains adamant about the potential dangers of the malfunctioning strap. She expressed her fear of the metal clasp on the comfort strap causing harm to her daughter during the ride. The family’s harrowing experience has raised questions about the safety protocols and oversight at theme parks like SeaWorld.
As the investigation continues, it is essential for theme parks to prioritize guest safety and address any potential risks promptly. Instances like this serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and regularly inspecting ride equipment to prevent accidents and ensure a safe experience for all visitors.
