Spokane, Wash. – As excitement builds for the Spokane Fair, Jim Hall, safety coordinator for Butler Amusements, assured attendees that safety remains a top priority. Despite a fire at Vista Stadium earlier, Hall stated it did not impact their preparations for the fair.
Hall emphasized that while the risk of fire on the fairgrounds is minimal, a plan is in place to ensure swift evacuation if necessary. “We have a plan of action to get people off the midway and out to the gates,” he said.
When it comes to ride safety, Hall detailed the rigorous inspection process. Rides come from fairs like the Evergreen State Fair and undergo multiple inspections, including third-party evaluations. Hall, a licensed third-party inspector himself, conducts additional checks to ensure safety. “I’m looking for things that might or could happen versus things that are in your face,” Hall explained.
Hall encouraged fairgoers to be proactive by reading ride instructions and keeping an eye on their children. “It’s nice for parents to bring when they bring their smaller kids that they watch them,” he advised.
For those bringing cell phones, Hall warned against using them on rides. “Do not pull a cell phone to take a selfie when you’re running on a ride because you’ll lose track of it,” he cautioned.
Hall concluded by expressing optimism for the fair, inviting everyone to enjoy safely. “I think everybody is going to have a really good time at this fair,” he said.
For more information about the Interstate Fair click here.
