Owner Defends Water Ball Ride

KINGSTON (CBS) -- Jerad Cartwright says before he added the Hydra-Sphere, or water ball, amusement to his Pump n Jump play area, he had an engineering company test the air quality and carbon dioxide levels inside the balls.

When the spheres are filled with air and sealed, people inside can move around on the water's surface.

"We do these at fairs, carnivals and the like. They've been very popular. A lot of kids have enjoyed it who tried the attraction."

WBZ-TV's Peg Rusconi reports.

But last month, a young girl collapsed inside one of the balls for reasons that remain unknown. She's recovered.

Said Cartwright, "It's a very unfortunate incident that happened. I know as a father of three children I hope the best for the little girl. And I would want to know what the cause would be."

The incident last month has put water balls under a lot of scrutiny. The state's public safety commissioner wants to ban them, but lacks the authority to do so.

Cartwright says he doesn't believe the ride is dangerous, but would like to work with regulators. "I would be more than willing. I think regulation is the key to any amusement device and to provide safety for the children I would definitely be willing to work with them on that."