After a simulated avalanche at the Fleet Science Center (Courtesy photo)
Entertainment, Balboa Park

Worst-Case Scenarios

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

One of the most exciting and perhaps fear-conquering exhibits to come through the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is “The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Experience.”

The traveling exhibit, created by designer Geoffrey M. Curley of Los Angeles, runs at the Fleet until Sept. 24. It occupies most of the second floor.

Visitors can expect an interactive experience that tests their skills and stamina in life-and-death situations such as natural disasters and puzzling situations that require mental stamina.

The “ball pit,” for example, is a contraption that simulates an avalanche involving a large pool that fills with soft plastic balls. It serves to also demonstrate to participants how to fall safely. There is also a simulator that gives visitors a taste of jumping from one train car to another. (Think Trainspotting, but with far less brutality.) And fear not because big, thick mats are used for catching those who fall off.

“Attendance has been brisk,” said the Fleet’s communications specialist Suzanne Sanders, who pointed out that the exhibit is based on the popular Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook, which was published in 1999.

The exhibit is included with the $24.95 admission into the Fleet Science Center.