Safety first: Crews conduct ride inspections at the Georgia National Fair

The Georgia National Fair is underway in Perry, and while the rides are a big attraction, safety remains the top priority.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Reithoffer Shows, the company responsible for bringing in and setting up all of the rides, says no ride can open until it passes inspection by the state of Georgia.

“This year we are bringing the biggest arsenal of rides that ever came to the Georgia National Fair and that means to the state of Georgia,” said Richard Reithoffer, President and CEO of Reithoffer Shows. “We’re going to have 68 rides here this year.”

Reithoffer says state inspectors are on the grounds during setup, checking each ride carefully.

“Nothing can open until they put the seal from Georgia on that ride to know that it’s passed inspection,” Reithoffer said.

Once the rides are cleared, safety checks don’t stop. Reithoffer says his team spends about an hour each day inspecting every ride before the gates open.

“We want to make sure families can enjoy the fair with peace of mind, knowing the rides are tested and ready to run,” he said.

The Georgia National Fair runs through October 12 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry. You can purchase tickets here.