The smell of fried food wafting on the air, the sound of live music and the sight of colorful, twirling rides – it’s time for summer festivals and fairs!

In northeast Ohio, at least one event every weekend highlights a different town, culture, history or hobby. If you need some ideas: The Ohio Festival and Fairs Association publishes a list, as does Ideastream Public Media.

Before you head out to enjoy the fun, take note of these tips to stay safe.

Sun and Heat Safety

• Wear sunscreen and reapply it according to the manufacturer directions on the package.
  
  
• Wear sunglasses, a hat or visor and SPF clothing to block harmful UV rays.
  
  
• Hydrate: drink cool water throughout the day and avoid alcohol.
  
  
• Take a break in the shade whenever possible.
  
  
• Consider going to the festival in the evening once the heat of the day has passed.

Food Safety

• If you’re bringing your own snacks and meals, store them in an insulated cooler with plenty of ice, out of the sun. Keeping the food cold will help to limit the growth of bacteria.
  
  
• If you’re buying food sold by vendors, eat it as soon as possible after purchasing. You want to avoid the “danger zone” of food temperatures: Hot foods like funnel cakes and corn dogs should be at 135 degrees and cold foods like fresh fruit should be below 41 degrees.
  
  
• An easy-to-remember rule is to eat it or refrigerate it within two hours.
  
  
• Before eating, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

Ride Safety

• Read the posted rules for each ride and listen to the ride operator’s instructions.
  
  
• Make sure all personal items such as phones, wallets and keys are secured.
  
  
• Always use all the safety equipment (seat belt, lap bar, etc.).
  
  
• Keep hands and feet inside the ride.
  
  
• Do not get off a ride until the operator says to unload.
  
  
• Make sure children are aware of the rules and can follow them. If they can’t, it’s best to sit this one out.

Keeping Safe Around Animals

• To avoid spreading germs, do not enter a petting zoo or barn if you feel sick.
  
  
• Leave your food, drinks, strollers and pacifiers outside the animal areas.
  
  
• Avoid touching your face to reduce the spread of germs. Supervise children to make sure they’re keeping their hands away from their face, mouth and nose.
  
  
• Wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum 20 seconds before and after petting animals or use hand sanitizer if handwashing isn’t possible.

Kid and Teen Safety

If your children want to spend time on their own at the festival, remind them to:

• Check with trusted adults before going anywhere, accepting anything or leaving the event.
  
  
• Never talk to strangers.
  
  
• Be aware of surroundings – do not become too focused on a cell phone.
  
  
• Stay in a group; there’s safety in numbers.
  
  
• Yell “No!” and make a scene – and get away – if anyone tries to touch or hurt them.

Sources:
City of Ukiah Police Department
Department of Homeland Security
Ohio Department of Health