OREGON, OH (WTOL) - Thousands of people come to the Fleitz Pumpkin Farm every fall to enjoy hayrides.
Paul Fleitz is surprised by the Saturday night hayride accident in Perkins Township that injured dozens but takes special precautions to make sure it doesn't happen at his farm.
"Safety is our main concern," said Mr. Fleitz.
Mr. Fleitz says there are no state laws regulating hayrides.
But he only uses wagons with side rails and routinely checks them for loose bolts.
Riders are also asked to be seated and it's important where they get on and off the wagons.
The Perkins Township accident happened after sunset.
Mr. Fleitz says that's a big mistake, made even worse now that authorities say the driver was drinking.
"I would never do a hayride after dark. It's dangerous. We only do our hayrides during the day and you can see what the people are doing on the wagon," said Mr. Fleitz.
It's also a good idea to stay off the roadways.
The Fleitz hayrides only circle the pumpkin farm.
"I try to maintain my speed so I don't go too fast. I try to slow down where there are bumpy areas so everybody is able to stay in their seats," said hayride driver Karen Phillips.
And stay safe in what has become an October tradition at the Oregon pumpkin farm.
