Questions surface regarding safety of zip lines ahead of Super Bowl festivities

While thrill seekers are fired up to soar over Capitol Avenue, there are concerns about zip line safety.

Just months ago, seven people died when a temporary stage collapsed at the Indiana State Fair. The temporary stages aren't regulated by state inspectors in Indiana and neither are zip lines.

Teal Larsen said there's nothing more thrilling than zip lining through the fresh air in Southern Indiana. In just weeks, she will guide tourists when they soar 100 feet over Capitol Avenue on one of the largest zip lines ever constructed for the Super Bowl.

"I'm really excited," said Larsen. "I think it's going to be where the party is. It may be intense, but it's a lot of fun.”


But is it safe? The zip line industry is self-regulated, which means companies have their own inspectors. Since it is self-regulated, that means companies have their own inspectors. No one keeps track of how many people die on zip lines, but published reports indicate at least nine people have died while zip lining. In one case, a cable snapped and the safety lane wasn't attached.

"I think it's a legitimate point," said Larsen, "but this firm is experienced. They are out of Canada and are prepared for it.”

The firm is Ziptrek and the Super Bowl Committee approached them after its zip line was wildly popular at the Vancouver Olympic Winter Games. Ziptrek has its own inspectors but the Super Bowl Committee will hire an inspector too.

And when it comes to bad weather?

"They are the primary decision makers, but we have the priority to shut it down," said Shawn Hitchcock, spokesperson for the Super Bowl Committee.

Fox59 checked into Ziptreck's safety record and found no deaths. They didn't get back to us on how many people have been injured on their attractions.

Plans for Indy's zip line have been in the works for 18 months. It's supposed to be the largest zip line ever in an urban setting.

The Super Bowl Committee is confident that this ride will truly be the thrill of a lifetime. The Super Bowl's advanced tickets are sold out, but visitors are welcome to pay $10 for a ride. The rides start Jan. 27 and run through Feb. 5, the day of the Super Bowl.