Spinning safely: Wisconsin State Fair rides inspected ahead of opening day

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) — The Wisconsin State Fair kicks off in just two days.

It runs July 31 through Aug. 10 at State Fair Park in West Allis.

Final preparations are underway, and that includes making sure the rides are safe.

Inspectors are testing the more than 40 rides in the park's "Spin City" section, preparing for families to make memories there.

"Some kids, this is their first experience on a ride, and we're happy we can provide this for them," said Shari Black, Wisconsin State Fair's CEO.

With more than a million visitors expected, rides are thoroughly inspected before the fair, and every day throughout.

Inspections are led by the state Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), along with contracted inspectors and ride operators.

"We look at things like the hydraulics, the brakes, the welds, the harnesses, the belts, the electrical system," said Jennifer Garrett, deputy secretary at DSPS. "They run, they start and stop, they check the different components."

Spin City is stocked with some of the most sought-after rides in the industry.

"Some of our rides only play three fairs. They play our fair, Minnesota, and the state fair of Texas," Black explained.

So, whether you like to spin or soar, you can feel comforted that safety is the priority.

We worry about the safety so that families can come here and just have fun. They don't have to worry," Garrett said.

It's not just ride preps right now - State Fair Park is already buzzing with staff and vendors, as they make finishing touches ahead of Thursday.