Water slides are a thrilling and exhilarating way to cool off during hot summer days. But not all water slides are created equal. Some push the limits of safety and physics, resulting in disastrous consequences. In this article, we explore the top X most dangerous water slides that have gained notoriety around the world. From injuries to fatalities, these water slides have left a trail of destruction in their wake.
Cannonball Falls: The Notorious Action Park
Action Park, also known as Class Action Park, gained infamy for its numerous injury-related lawsuits. One of the most notorious water parks in the world, it reopened in 2010 promising a focus on safety. However, their first water slide, Cannonball Falls, quickly proved otherwise. While it may seem tame compared to other slides on this list, it holds the record for the most water park injuries in the entire state of New Jersey. The 10-foot drop into a pool resulted in severe shoulder injuries for five out of the six people who were injured in just one season. Cannonball Falls had to be shut down for good in September 2015.
The Cannonball Loop: Defying Physics
When it comes to extreme water slides, sometimes it’s best to ignore the laws of physics. At least, that’s what the designers of the Cannonball Loop at Action Park believed. This slide expected riders to do a full loop right at the end. While completing a full loop is not impossible, coming out uninjured is. During testing, riders had to be hosed down to improve their chances of making it to the end unscathed. However, most ended up with broken or missing limbs. Action Park even had to pay its employees a hundred bucks just to test the slide. After only a month of operation, the Cannonball Loop was permanently closed due to its extreme danger.
Shoot the Rapids: A Flipping Disaster
Cedar Point Water Park in Sandusky, Ohio, prided itself on being one of the best amusement parks in the world. However, in July 2013, one of its main attractions, Shoot the Rapids, turned into a nightmare. Guests on the river rafting simulation ride experienced a catastrophic accident. The boat they were in suddenly rolled back 187 feet down the lift track, collided with another boat, and flipped over, leaving riders trapped underwater. Quick action from park employees and bystanders prevented a more tragic outcome. Poorly designed safety features led to the accident, and the ride was eventually shut down in 2016.
The Scorpion’s Tail: The Only Working Looping Waterslide
Designed by engineering firm Whitewater West, the Scorpion’s Tail proudly claims to be the first and only looping waterslide in the US. From its 10-story-high start to its 400-foot pipe descent, this slide doesn’t hold back. The 27-foot loop, at a 60-degree angle, puts riders to the test. Going at speeds of around 50 feet per second, riders zoom around the loop for a thrilling 9 to 14 seconds. No belts or carts, just you, water splashes, and swirling walls. But if you can’t keep up with the required speed, you’ll be shamefully sent back to the start.
Insano: An Insane Free Fall
Insano lives up to its name by offering one of the most insane water slide experiences in the world. Located in Beach Park, Brazil, this slide’s height alone is enough to strike fear in any rider. Standing at a towering 135 feet, riders free fall from the top, reaching speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. Once the tallest water slide in the world, Insano remains a legendary yet potentially dangerous ride. Its extreme height and sheer velocity make it a heart-stopping experience for the brave souls who dare to take the plunge.
Sahara Sidewinder: Thrills and Injuries
According to Kalahari Resorts Ohio, the Sahara Sidewinder is a slide that offers high speeds and high thrills. Unfortunately, it also offers a high risk of injuries. Several incidents of alleged injuries were reported, with one family suing the resort for injuries their young boy sustained. Management was aware of the risks but failed to improve safety measures, resulting in numerous injuries. After the lawsuits, the Sahara Sidewinder was permanently closed.
Aqua Scoot: A Stupid Design
Action Park makes another appearance on our list, thanks to the Aqua Scoot. This slide’s design was simply stupid. Using warehouse rollers, riders were sent down at breakneck speeds on a plastic sled. The goal was to skip across the water at the bottom like a flat stone. However, if you weren’t sitting at the correct angle, you could be flung off the slide. The shallow pool added to the danger, with riders experiencing horrific injuries, including pinching and head injuries. Collisions between riders were also common. It’s no wonder the Aqua Scoot was closed down.
The Steamer Slide: Calypso Park’s Dangerous Ride
The Steamer Slide at Calypso Park in Canada earned its spot on this list for causing serious neck and back injuries to riders. Reports of injuries date back to 2011, with one rider breaking her collarbone and her husband suffering a concussion. The ride had a buckle in one area, causing tubes to flip over, leading to injuries. Ontario authorities fined Calypso Water Park half a million dollars for the ride’s negligence.
Verrückt: A Tragic Water Slide
Schlitterbahn Water Park in Kansas City built Verrückt, a 170-foot tall water slide, aiming to claim the title of the world’s tallest water slide. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when a ten-year-old boy named Caleb Schwab was decapitated during a ride. The park faced criminal charges, but they were later dismissed. Verrückt was permanently closed and dismantled, serving as a painful reminder of one of the worst water park accidents in history.
The Slip and Slide: Hidden Dangers
While it may seem innocent, the Slip and Slide holds the top spot on our list of dangerous water slides. The Consumer Product Safety Commission conducted tests and found that adults and teenagers diving into a Slip and Slide could abruptly stop, causing permanent spinal cord injuries. Quadriplegia or paraplegia was a real possibility. Shockingly, Wham-O, the manufacturer, made no design changes, leaving this potentially dangerous toy unchanged.
These water slides serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the importance of safety and responsible design. While the thrill of water slides is undeniable, it’s crucial to prioritize the well-being of riders. As we seek excitement and adventure, let’s remember the lessons learned from the most dangerous water slides in the world.
