The recent incident involving an amusement ride at the opening of the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival has sparked serious concerns regarding safety at public events. While the festival is a joyful occasion that unites families and friends, lapses in safety protocol can create significant risks.
The Miss Hibiscus Festival is a well-loved event in Fiji, known for its delicious food, lively music, and vibrant community spirit. The scents of freshly made popcorn, barbecued delicacies, and a variety of cuisines, particularly iTaukei dishes, fill the air, enticing attendees of all ages.
After a five-year hiatus, the return of the Miss Hibiscus Festival in 2024 is indeed a reason to celebrate, but this excitement must not come at the cost of safety. The incident from Sunday serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for comprehensive safety measures in amusement rides.
Many amusement attractions have been operating for decades, often being brought out of storage with only superficial maintenance. This negligence poses grave risks. Fiji has experienced several minor festival accidents over the years, but these cannot simply be written off as statistics. A tragic incident last June, where a Ferris wheel malfunction led to the death of a 21-year-old and injuries to others in Suva, highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols. This is especially relevant considering that over 1,197 amusement ride accidents occurred in North America in a single year, despite millions of visitors enjoying these attractions. It raises the question of how prepared Fiji is to manage potential emergencies.
Though the Hibiscus Festival aims to foster joy, excitement, and family bonding, safety must remain a top priority. Festival-goers expect to experience thrilling attractions without compromising their well-being. Parents should not have to worry that a day of fun could become a distressing ordeal for their children. The festival committee’s promise of thorough inspections and certifications for all rides must be backed by rigorous safety checks, especially after any incidents.
While the committee was right to suspend the malfunctioning ride, a temporary solution is insufficient. The Ministry of Industrial Relations’ Occupational Health and Safety Department should prioritize ensuring that operators are certified, and that medical personnel are present at all times during the event. Creating safety zones with soft surfaces instead of hard pavements can significantly mitigate risks associated with rides, and having a solid response strategy for emergencies is essential.
As the festival progresses over the next four days, the primary focus should be on the enjoyment of attendees. They should be able to savor delicious food, explore, and create cherished memories free from the fear of injuries or theft. Event organizers must uphold safety and security continually, being proactive in implementing necessary measures to rebuild public trust.
Additionally, while celebrating at the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, it is crucial to be mindful of the environment. Ongoing beautification efforts in Suva should not be compromised by littering or vandalism. Maintaining a clean environment is paramount.
Committee chairman Opetaia Ravai aptly noted that the common objective is to create positive and safe memories for everyone. It is vital to take this reminder seriously and to enjoy the Hibiscus Festival without jeopardizing safety.