Tips for parents on amusement park rides

ALBANY, N.Y., May 27 (UPI) -- As summer draws near, the New York state labor department offers parents advice on how to safeguard their children on amusement park rides.

The department reminds parents they know their child best and even though their child may meet minimum height, age, weight and health restrictions, not all rides may not be appropriate.

"Some children are afraid of heights, some are afraid of the dark and others have trouble staying seated," experts at the labor department say in a statement. "The ride attendant does not know your child -- you do."

Never put a child on a ride he or she is afraid of and make sure the child understands he or she cannot get off the ride, even if he or she becomes afraid, the agency advises.

A young child should be put on the inside away from open sides. Seat belts and lap bars should always be used but parents should be aware of limitations, the department advises.

Before putting a child on a ride, a parent should:

-- Watch the ride first with the child so he or she knows what to expect.

-- Read the warning sign aloud with your child.

-- Point out the ride operator, the exit and entrance locations.