PortaPocket Notebook

Not sure if you heard about this, but the latest apple iWatch and iPhone 14 have a new feature. It's a feature that seems useful, but it's actually creating a new problem unintentionally. While 'smart' electronics often enhance our lives, it seems that in this case it's having an opposite effect.

The issue stems from the new 'crash detection' feature. So when you're on a high speed ride, the sharp movements and drops are seemingly like those one might experience in a car accident. So your apple tech is now summoning the ambulances on your behalf. Oh my! 

This is a fail on multiple fronts as any misguided efforts to assist people who don't need emergency services results in a waste of resources. Dispatching people and equipment to unnecessary missions disallows them to be available for more urgent situations where people actually need help.

Some parks that are now aware of this situation have started installing signage to tell patrons to please turn off their cell phones &/or watches, or leave them off the ride altogether.  The first step in fixing the problem is always awareness.

It's a start. 

 

After this summer's shooting-in-the-parking-lot incident at Great America in Gurnee, IL it seems corporate Six Flags has now decided to implement a new safety policy that has guests griping.

From this point forward (as I understand it, this goes beyond Fright Fest & Halloween events), no guest can bring in any bag that is larger than 12" x 12" x 6" in size. With the only exceptions allowed for medical reasons, or diaper bags brought in w/an infant or young child.

Though these changes are mainly done in the name of guest safety, some folks have a difficult time absorbing anything different to the way they go about their business. So if you pay attention, you'll notice they may end up venting their frustrations on line. Some are cited in this article:

https://insidethemagic.net/2022/10/theme-park-fans-outraged-six-flags-bag-policy-jc1/

Other parks beyond Six Flags are of like mind, too. For instance, Elitch Gardens in Denver has posted this: 

*UPDATED* Fright Fest Bag Policy

Only bags, including purses, backpacks and fanny packs within the dimensions of 8″ x 5″ x 2″ are permitted as well as medical or diaper bags (child must be present). All bags are subject to be searched prior to entry.

While limiting a guest's options, the good news is we're here with simple solutions to help you enjoy your day with less hassle. Our PortaPocket wearables are all compliant with these new parameters and hence will be allowable to use.

See?

Good fun to you, and a happy Halloween too!

 

  

While this definitely qualifies, it begs the question:

Why is this even happening in the first place?
Just another reason parks and PortaPocket are destined to become best friends. 

xo

 

 photo credit: Attractions Magazine

It seems to go without saying we shouldn't jump a fence to go into a restricted area by a roller coaster while it's in operation, but at times even smart people can lose their good judgment in a moment of panic. So tragic a story that a good-hearted special education teacher is no longer with us due to one poor decision. Our thoughts go out to his family.

 

It can't be overstated... losing your cell phone (and / or your wallet) is not worth risking one's life. Please stop and think. Don't let the heat of the moment cloud your eyes to reality. ;(

May he rest in peace.