KEY POINTS

  • The new normal creates changes for amusement parks 
  • In Denmark, roller coasters will be limited to one person per train
  • This new rule applies to other rides where riders are most likely to scream 

Visitors of theme parks in Denmark will have to accept the “new normal” in rides they used to thoroughly enjoy with friends and families. According to reports, as they prepare to open their gates again to the public, Denmark theme park officials are now in the process of deciding how to implement new regulations to help stem the spread of COVID-19.

The New Normal

Social distancing measures, and other methods that have been seen to help prevent coronavirus transmission, are now being implemented in all places where crowds gather. These include theme parks where people get to sit or stand closely side-by-side in the past. In Denmark, among the favorite rides in the many of the country’s amusement parks are roller coasters. Today, new social distancing rules mean riders will get more space to themselves.

According to the OC Register reports, social distancing guidelines require theme parks to put a limit to the number of riders on every attraction. In some instances, the rules reportedly allow only one family or rider for each train, making for a very lonely ride. Aside from getting more space and possibly being alone on an attraction, the restrictions may also mean longer waiting times on lines.

roller coasters in Denmark to limit capacity to one person per train
roller coasters in Denmark to limit capacity to one person per train somecomputer - Pixabay

Droplets Abound

Reports indicated that one of the primary concern of health authorities are virus-laden droplets that may land on an unsuspecting co-rider of a particular attraction like roller coasters. According to authorities, the virus can be spread by infected riders as they let out screams during the thrill ride.

Health experts are worried this may cause microscopic droplets to fall on other roller coaster riders, infecting them with the coronavirus. The new rule reportedly also applies to high-speed rides and fast-spinning attractions, as well as any other rides that visitors are likely to scream on.

Silent Rides

News reports quoted health experts say that in time, even screams may even be subject to new restrictions. In a report by Fox News, a group of Japanese theme park operators has been crafting a new set of guidelines for popular amusement rides in Japan. Upon reopening, it may mean that the rides would not only be much cleaner than before; it would also be quieter.