Hey Thrill Seekers,
We’ve received unofficial word (Note: Now confirmed by Universal Orlando) that Universal Orlando have today completed the installation of metal detectors at two of its most popular rides. Twitter was awash with conversation regarding the new additions at both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
The two coasters to receive the upgrade are said to be, The Hulk Coaster at Islands and Rip Ride Rockit at Studio’s. During my recent visit to Orlando I did note that staff were manning the Rip Ride Rockit entrance asking customer to remove all items from their pockets, this is obviously an attempt by Universal to minimise the risk of injury on these huge rides.
You’ll probably recall that Dragon’s Challenge (formally Dueling Dragons) unique point was the crossover section where the two coasters come extremely close to each other, this was scaled back and each coaster was set at different run times after a few riders reported injuries caused by items falling from customers pockets. Universal wisely acted quickly to prevent this.
Reading through conversations regarding the introduction of the metal detectors people seem in one of two camps, firstly those who feel this is on par with going through airport security and a bit of a liberty and the second bunch being those who believe this is a good thing and hope to see this rolled out throughout the park.
We’ve yet to hear anything official from Universal (Update: Universal have now confirmed the testing of metal detectors) regarding the introduction but I think its safe to say that the introduction is purely for visitor safety. I’ll update the post when we hear more.
UPDATE: Universal’s spokesman Tom Schroder has confirmed that they are testing the use of metal detectors at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios, as an enhanced approach to their safety program. The use of metal detectors will help Universal staff identify items that visitors will be asked to secure before riding. Lockers will be available.
Visitors will walk through the metal detectors if something is detected then a nearby Universal employee will use a metal detector wand to locate the item which can then be secured.
Schroder was keen to point out this is only in the testing stage at present.
Smiles included…
Jamie
