How does a California amusement park handle the upcoming pandemic? It has a unique arrangement with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, where the security officers are sworn special deputies but do not report to the county sheriff. Instead, the answer to the park’s security chief, Steve Knott, grandson of the late Walter Knott. This arrangement continues today, with the addition of a private police force and the station-K public safety radio designation.

Ban on screaming on rides

When Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California – Tripster reopen in April, they may face a new rule: No screaming on rides. This new measure is being pushed by the Attractions and Parks Association, the statewide trade group that represents theme parks. The plan calls for a reduced capacity, face masks, and other precautions against the spread of COVID-19.

California’s amusement parks have stepped up their efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. The ban on screaming on rides is a reaction to concerns that people might be spreading the virus or COVID-19. The CDC says that screaming and shouting increase the risk of contracting COVID-19, the virus that causes the common cold. If California theme parks adopt this new policy, it will be the first to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

While a California theme park may be taking action to prevent the spread of the virus, it’s important to remember that the COVID-19 roller coaster can cause microscopic saliva droplets to fly to rear-seat passengers. The California Amusement Parks Association has issued advice to theme parks about mitigating this problem, but independent theme parks are exempt. Japan has also introduced a similar policy. For example, fuji-Q Highland in Tokyo told attendees to “scream in your heart” as they ride roller coasters.

Cleaning of seats

State officials have implemented new pandemic protocols after Knott’s Candy Farm outbreak. The amusement park is cleaning up its seats to meet these new standards in response to the recent outbreak. The park will return to its normal capacity of less than 25%, and single-day visitors will be required to make reservations. 

Regular cleaning of restraints

One way to address pandemic protocols and maintain a safe environment is through regular cleaning of restraints at theme parks. Knott’s Berry Farm has made this process easier by implementing a mask requirement and requiring employees to use hand sanitizer. Additionally, the company ensures that employees always wear masks and are not eating or drinking while walking around the theme park. Employees are also hired for their excellent behavior and clean restraints after every meal.

Several months ago, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the closure of the park. It was closed for 15 months. Then, it reopened with rides and its water park, Soak City. Now, visitors can visit Knott’s without a reservation. This is a significant change for theme parks, and it shows the value of having regular cleaning of restraints at theme parks.

Expanding operations

A new unified communications solution from NEC supports the company’s mission-critical business processes. The migration to the new system was well-planned and cost-effective, considering existing technology protocols. The park anticipates reopening in April 2021 but is not ruling out reopening earlier. A social media post from Knott’s Berry Farm indicates that the reopening will occur in May.

As a result of these pandemic protocols, Knott’s Cartoon Ranch will operate at less than 25% of its previous capacity. The park will continue to provide excellent hand sanitizer for guests, but single-day visitors will have to make reservations. Unfortunately, fried chicken and roller coasters are no longer available. The reopening of Knott’s Berry Farm will allow season-pass holders to return as early as May 6 – a month before it reopens to the general public. A summer-long celebration will follow, including the “Knott’s Family Reunion.”