Oktoberfest Moving On After Tent Collapse

By Latoya Silmon, New On 6

TULSA, OK -- Oktoberfest turns 30, and the party kicked off Wednesday night. But it's the 29th birthday that's got the country talking.

It's been a year since dozens were injured and at least five people were hospitalized after severe weather blew through causing two major tents to collapse.

The Journal of Emergency Medical Services studied the aftermath and featured it as a model of emergency excellence.

This year is a very different scene, and organizers are determined to not let the past ruin the party.

Oktoberfest is hammering in a new year.

"It's food and great music and family fun and just something for everyone of all ages," said Oktoberfest Executive Director Laurie Smith.

The sights and sounds drew thousands last year. Then Mother Nature blew through. Two huge tents collapsed trapping thousands underneath and injuring dozens as debris flew through the air.

Kelly Deal of EMSA was one first to arrive on the scene.

"The response went extremely well.  It went well because we knew there was a weather threat and we had assets in place," said Deal.

The Journal of Emergency Medical Services agrees and featured the response on the cover. But EMSA and organizers admit there was room for improvement.

"We have established a close working relationship with the organizers of Oktoberfest and River Parks. We have spent a lot of time to do things better," said Deal.

There's now a playbook with detailed maps of the festival, and revised plan on how everyone can work together more efficiently.

"If the unthinkable happens it all falls into place very smoothly, you're not having to make it up as you go along and that not so much different as before but now more players are involved and you get more information," said Deal.

Organizers say party goers have nothing to worry about.

"That was the first incident in over 29 years.  Just an accident of nature.  Pure and simple," said Smith.