You know those coin-operated rides at the mall? They’re dangerous...

Those colorful coin-operated rides in malls and restaurants are cute and fun - but they’re also more dangerous than amusement park rides...

A recent study found that more injuries occur to children on these seemingly harmless rides than on roller coasters and log flumes. Dr. Gary Smith, director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy, says these rides pose a particular hazard for a couple of reasons. They are usually on hard surfaces, with nothing to cushion a fall. They also don’t typically have restraints to keep the little rider in. Most of these injuries occur when the child is getting in or out of the ride or unexpectedly tries to stand up.

Young children have larger heads, and they’re thrown off balance much easier than bigger kids and adults. If you plan to use a coin-operated ride, remember to stay within close reach of your child for the duration and be sure to help them get on and off of that ride.