Still, you can't be too careful. Once tucked inside safety restraints, tug and pull, to see if they release. If they do, hold your hand up and holler. While this year's deaths all took place at fixed site parks, industry experts say traveling carnivals can be even more dangerous. Mobile rides are constantly dismantled and reassembled.
Most states inspect carnival rides that cross state lines, but there is no national standard.
Anyone could buy a ferris wheel, set it up in a mall parking lot, and start selling tickets. It could be days before a regulatory agency noticed, says safety consultant McClary. Responsible carnival owners do take precautions. Responsible guests should, too. Most states with inspection programs paste permit stickers on traveling rides that pass muster.