Photo cred IG @princesspitch_
Scared of heights? Here is why you need to get over your fear of the Niagara SkyWheel, and some exercises you can take that can help with Acrophobia (the fear of heights).
1. The Niagara SkyWheel is safety inspected on a regular basis.
Photo cred IG @born.wild.still.wild
Our Niagara SkyWheel is safety checked frequently to assure the smooth and comfortable experience you always dreamed of. We are 175 feet from ground level, but since we are situated at the highest peak of Clifton Hill, you will receive an unparalleled view from these panoramic gondolas. We want to make sure that not only you get stunning views, but that there are no “hiccups” while you are up there. You will never have to worry.
2. We are an observation wheel, NOT a ferris wheel.
The SkyWheel doesn’t fold out in a day and you can’t rock them like those rides at the fair. There’s no feet hanging out the bottom to contend with, and your spouse/kids/friends can’t scare you by making them really move with their body weight. If it is a really windy day, the gondolas may sway back and forth a touch, but rest assured that you are completely safe and the nuts and bolts are on complete lock down! The SkyWheel can withstand wind speeds of up to 135 miles per hour! That gondola is going nowhere except providing you with one of the BEST views of the Niagara Falls.
Other ways observation wheels differ:
- Observation wheels feature enclosed gondola’s.
- Observation wheels are supported by an A-frame support, whereas ferris wheels are supported by two towers on each side of the axle.
- Observation wheels offer a 360 degree unobstructed view.
3. We are fully enclosed AND climate-controlled.
No matter the elements, you will be comfortable inside the SkyWheel. Each gondola is fully enclosed by a non-reflective, UV protected glass (for quality photo opportunities). We are air-conditioned in the Summer and heated in the Winter.
4. You CANNOT open the doors.
The gondola doors are locked from the outside, so passengers are entirely safe and secure. There is no way little hands can pry it open for the inside.
5. You have an emergency button at your disposal.
If you absolutely must get off, you may press the “emergency call” red button found on the roof of the gondola. The SkyWheel Operator will see your call and once the rotation is complete, you will be let off immediately before the next turn. There is always a way to communicate with the control board Operator.
*Note: Some SkyWheel operators recommend riding during the evening if you suffer from Acrophobia, as the darkness tricks the eye into thinking you are not as high. You will still get magnificent lit up views of the Niagara Falls illumination, without the fear of staring at the ground and people below.
6. Claustrophobic? We can help with that too.
Also found on the roof of the gondola is the green “fan” button. This will assist you with air flow, plus you may open the upper window part way (see photo).
7. You are not alone.
This means that unlike at a carnival where there is one operator loading, unloading, and operating the wheel, there is no sole operator here at the Niagara SkyWheel. The operation booth is occupied at all times, and there will always be at least one attendant loading and unloading the passengers. They remain on deck — so give a wave on your rotations! They are there to make sure your ride is an enjoyable experience.
Steps to help with Acrophobia:
Research has found that 1 in 7 people suffer from an “irrational fear of heights”, with women being more than twice as likely than men to suffer from this.
a) When faced with a threatening situation, take slow, deep breaths, which can help slow the heart rate and increase the oxygen flow to muscles to keep from tensing up.
b) Meditate. Relaxing music, aromatherapy, and even some stretching or light massage can help relieve the physical symptoms.
c) Seek “Behaviour Therapy”. In this form of treatment, the acrophobe is encouraged to take small steps to desensitize himself to the phobia. Do this easily at home by viewing pictures taken from a height, or by climbing one stair at a time and then incrementally increasing the height.
d) Mentally prepare yourself ahead of time by educating yourself on what you are about to do. If you know that you are going to be dealing with heights, try to prepare yourself in advance. Close your eyes and visualize the situation, and understand that it does not pose any real threat to your safety and go over all the safety precautions (barriers, railings, harnesses, etc).
e) Cut back on caffeine. This may be a contributing factor to acrophobia. Limiting or abstaining from caffeine could help alleviate symptoms. It is likely to make you less high-strung and more relaxed, which can make it easier to confront your fear.
For those of you that have an intense fear of spending a lot of money (Chrometophobia), here is a $1.00 off Niagara SkyWheel coupon that can be used for up to 6 people in your group. Just print it out and enjoy!
Or purchase the Niagara SkyWheel in a Clifton Hill Fun Pass. This is the best deal to get more attractions, for less. Proceed with the order online and you will receive an additional Niagara SkyWheel (go day and night!):
