More Metal Detectors Arrive at Universal Orlando Parks This Week

A few weeks ago Universal Orlando installed metal detectors for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida as an added security for loose articles that guests might have in their pockets that they didn’t stow-a-way in a locker.

Well now they have now added the metal detectors to two other rides the first is located in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade, Dragon Challenge which is a high-speed coaster where you’ll ride one of two fire breathers.  Back in the day it was called “Dueling Dragon’s” and both of the coasters would soar together giving you a thrilling feeling riding the Dragon, however, that all ended in 2011 when an older gentlemen suffered a lacerated right eye from an object hitting him while he was riding the coaster. Now the coasters are dispatched at random times. So since that incident I can understand the need for the installation of the metal detectors. It would be really great if they could go back to dueling!

The second ride to have metal detectors installed is at The Incredible Hulk Coaster where you’ll launch from zero to 40 mph in two seconds flat, and flip upside-down! If you have anything in your pockets before you board the ride you will not once you get off which is why you can see nets filled with hats, sunglasses, cellphones, and coins. I don’t care how good you think you are you just can NOT hold on to stuff while riding this ride……well at least I can’t!

What you need to know, before you go:

• As you approach the rides they have warning signs telling guests to place all loose items from their pockets into a locker, and they can’t bring anything onto the ride.This is not something new! This has ALWAYS been the rule.
• You get to use the locker for FREE while on the ride. One free use per person, per day. To “rent” the locker you have to use your index finger as an ID to open the locker. Don’t forget your locker number! And if you do just ask the attendant for help.
• Just prior to entering the line for these rides guests will go through a metal detector, and if you should trigger the detector then they will also use the handheld wand too. So no cheating!

For now Universal is just testing out the metal detectors for an added security measure. It hasn’t been announced if they plan to keep the metal detectors as permanent additions to attractions just yet. I think it will!

This has also caused a bit of discussion from park goers as to “what” is considered appropriate for ride security. Many guests are saying that they feel this is a violation of privacy, and rightly so some fear it will cause problems for guests with internal medical devices or those with sub-dermal metal plates, screws or pins. While we haven’t had confirmation from Universal several of my friends that are Universal employees are stating that they are taking this very seriously and if you have any concerns please let them know, so that they can address them immediately.

I can tell you right now that I am not happy, but I totally understand why they feel the need to add them. I’ve personally seen many guests in the lines for these rides with “loose” items and my first thought is “I hope I don’t get hit with them!”

This new policy has been a big shock for those spending the day at one of Universal’s theme parks, but this is nothing new for those that attend Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights because just to enter the theme park you must go through a metal detector as well as have ALL bags searched. However, having them in front of the rides might cause some problems with even longer lines on those extremely busy nights.

• What are your thoughts about having metal detectors on coasters? Do you think they will stay permanently or be removed before the busy summer season?

My name is Leigh Saleh. I’m a Travel Agent with World of Magic Travel. I’m a Universal Orlando Specialist, SeaWorld Parks Specialist, Legoland Florida Specialist and a Disney Destination Specialist as well as many more destinations including cruise lines. Email me today atleigh@worldofmagictravel.com to book your next “Magical” family vacation to your favorite destination.

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