An incident involving an amusement ride at the commencement of the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival has sparked significant concerns regarding safety at public events. While the festival serves as a joyous occasion uniting families and friends, the potential for danger arises when safety measures are not properly implemented.
The Miss Hibiscus Festival is a renowned event in Fiji that showcases delightful cuisine, lively music, and social interaction. The tempting scents of popcorn, barbecues, and various dishes, particularly iTaukei specialties, fill the atmosphere, appealing to individuals of all backgrounds and ages.
After a five-year hiatus, the festival’s return in 2024 is a moment for celebration; however, the thrill should not be overshadowed by lapses in safety. The recent mishap serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for strict operating standards for amusement rides.
Many of these rides have been in operation for decades and are often taken out of storage, given quick touch-ups, and set up without adequate safety assessments, posing significant threats that can lead to tragic outcomes. Fiji has witnessed its share of festival-related incidents, which should not be merely regarded as numbers. The tragic accident last June, which resulted in the death of a 21-year-old woman and injuries to two others due to a Ferris wheel malfunction in Suva, emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols. In North America, over 1,197 amusement ride accidents occurred in a year, despite millions enjoying these attractions. Fiji must reflect on its preparedness for emergency situations.
Although the Hibiscus Festival is a time for enjoyment and bonding, safety should always be prioritized. Attendees deserve the thrill of rides in a secure setting without the fear that a fun day could turn into a distressing ordeal for their family. The festival committee’s commitment to ensuring that all rides are checked and certified must go beyond mere claims, demanding rigorous and transparent safety inspections, especially after any incidents.
The committee took appropriate action in halting the problematic ride, but this should not be a temporary solution. The Ministry of Industrial Relations’ Occupational Health and Safety Department must focus on safety, guarantee that operators are qualified, and ensure medical personnel are present at all times. Establishing safety zones with softer ground surfaces instead of hard pavement can significantly minimize risks associated with rides. Additionally, having an effective emergency response plan is crucial.
As the festival continues over the next four days, attendees should feel free to enjoy the activities, savor delicious foods, and create joyful memories without concerns for their safety. Organizers must maintain vigilance in ensuring safety and security throughout the event to rebuild public trust.
Furthermore, as we partake in the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, we should also be considerate of our surroundings. The ongoing beautification initiatives in Suva must not be compromised by litter or vandalism. It is essential to keep Suva clean.
Opetaia Ravai, the committee chair, accurately noted that the shared objective is to cultivate positive and secure lasting memories. It is imperative to heed this warning and relish the festivities without compromising our safety.