Test dummies fall off Jersey Shore coaster during safety run

The operators of a Cape May County amusement park say a roller coaster there is safe after a pair of water-filled test dummies fell off during a recent test ride.

News 12 Staff

Apr 30, 2019, 8:09 PM

Updated 2,086 days ago

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The operators of a Cape May County amusement park say a roller coaster there is safe after a pair of water-filled test dummies fell off during a recent test ride.
The GaleForce coaster at Playland's Castaway Cove in Ocean City was undergoing a routine safety check April 20 when the dummies plummeted onto a hotel next door. Park officials say that the dummies damaged shingles and plywood on the hotel’s roof.
Officials say the dummies had undetected leaks that made them lose their mass and shape, causing them to fall. They say that wouldn't happen to humans, noting people "don't lose rigidity.” They say that nothing on the ride failed during the test, including the lap bar that secures riders.
The coaster has run problem-free since the mishap and is tested daily for about two hours, according to park officials.
The GaleForce officially opened to the public on May 26, 2017.
The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.