CLEARFIELD – The Clearfield Fair and Park Board has issued a statement ensuring the safety of its rides after a tragic incident at the Ohio State Fair.
On opening night at the Ohio State Fair in Columbus, the Fire Ball ride broke apart while it was in motion. The ride has at least six rows of seats that spin around in the air as the entire structure moves like a pendulum.
CNN reported that a video posted online appears to show several people on the Fire Ball seconds before parts of the structure, including a full row of seats, split up and fell.
The amusement ride incident claimed one life and hospitalized several others.
Before Ohio fair-goers were hurled off the ride, it had been inspected three or four times over two days and it had passed.
As a result, a statement was issued by Clearfield County Fair Manager Greg Hallstrom. He ensured the fair’s rides are safe, and that officials follow the proper inspection protocol.
Hallstrom’s statement read:
“The Clearfield County Fair is saddened by the unfortunate event that occurred at the Ohio State Fair. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to all of those involved.
“We would like to give [peace] of mind to our patrons that the Clearfield County Fair will continue to follow all state requirements pertaining to the inspection of the rides.”
Hallstrom, on behalf of the fair and park board, outlined its protocol for ride inspections.
- Before the rides are open for operation, an independent Pennsylvania state-licensed inspector will perform and certify all rides by conducting several tests to ensure the safe operation of each ride.
- In addition, a daily inspection will be conducted by all of the ride foremen. A follow-up to this inspection will be conducted by a state inspector who will document their findings.
Clearfield County Fair officials, along with Reithoffer Shows, look forward to seeing everyone at the 157th fair that runs from Sunday, July 30 through Saturday, Aug. 5.
