The recent incident involving an amusement ride at the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival has sparked significant concerns regarding the safety of public events. While the festival typically serves as a joyous occasion that unites families and friends, the risks associated with overlooked safety protocols are now in the spotlight.
The Miss Hibiscus Festival is a prominent event in Fiji, celebrated for its culinary offerings, lively music, and the strengthening of community ties. The enticing scents of popcorn, barbecued meats, and various cuisines, particularly iTaukei dishes, fill the atmosphere, catering to people of all ages.
Following a five-year hiatus, the festival’s return has been met with enthusiasm, but this excitement is tempered by the recent accident, emphasizing the necessity for strict adherence to safety measures in operating amusement rides. Many of these rides, often decades old, can be hastily prepared for operation with minimal checks, presenting serious risks.
Fiji has seen its share of minor incidents at festivals throughout the years, but these can no longer be dismissed as mere statistics. A tragic accident last June, which led to the death of a 21-year-old woman and serious injuries to two others due to a Ferris wheel malfunction in Suva, highlighted the urgent need for improved safety protocols. In North America, numerous amusement ride accidents are recorded annually, raising questions about Fiji’s preparedness for managing similar emergencies.
As the Hibiscus Festival provides an opportunity for fun and family bonding, safety cannot be sidelined. The thrill of rides should not come at the cost of safety. Families must feel assured that their festive experiences will not turn traumatic. The festival committee’s commitment to ensuring all rides are checked and certified should go beyond mere assurances; rigorous and transparent safety measures must be implemented, especially after incidents occur.
The festival organizers made the right decision to suspend the malfunctioning ride, but a more comprehensive approach to safety is needed. The Ministry of Industrial Relations’ Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Department should prioritize ensuring ride operators are fully certified and that medical personnel are present on-site at all times. Creating safety zones with soft surfaces rather than hard pavements could significantly lower risks, and having effective emergency response plans is essential.
As the festival continues over the next four days, attendees should focus on enjoying the festivities, sampling delicious foods, and creating happy memories without the fear of accidents. Organizers need to remain vigilant about safety and security to restore public trust.
Moreover, while celebrating at the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, it is also crucial to respect the environment. Ongoing beautification efforts in Suva should not be compromised by littering or vandalism. Keeping Suva clean should be a shared responsibility.
Opetaia Ravai, the chairman of the festival committee, aptly noted that the collective aim is to foster positive and secure memories. It is time to address these safety concerns thoughtfully, enabling attendees to enjoy the Hibiscus Festival without jeopardizing their well-being.