Ride safety top of mind as State Fair sets to kick off 2024 run

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- After lots of weekend events, more fun is on the way! The Wisconsin State Fair is just three days away and preparations are underway to ensure another great year full of food, music, and more. 

This year, there are 38 rides, a decrease from the typical 40 to 50 they normally have. That's because you can expect even bigger thrills with machines like the "Crazy Mouse" and "The Kraken" making their Wisconsin State Fair debut. 

Monday, July 29 state safety inspections continued. They're checking the electrical parts, brakes, and restraints while looking for corrosion and so much more. If a problem is found the vendors work quickly to fix it. 

The Wisconsin State Fair also has a third-party inspection team on-site during the fair. 

"Every single morning, each of these operators has to do a thorough self-inspection of their ride and turn that information into the state fair and then the private ride inspection also does a spot inspection for selected rides throughout the park," said Dan Hereth, secretary designee for the Department of Safety and Professional Services. 

The fair runs Aug. 1-11. You're encouraged to buy your tickets online for easier entry and plan your trip early before going to the fairgrounds.