As the state fair kicks off this weekend, many are excited to take the first bite of a deep-fried Oreo, enjoy a much-deserved cool summer night listening to live music, walk away victorious from a carnival game with the biggest prize, and enjoy the various cute animals at the fair!
Fairs and festivals are a great chance to get together, eat some great food and enjoy all the competitions. But these events also involve lots of walking, large crowds and dealing with the elements during the summer days. It’s important to keep health and safety in mind when heading out to these events.
With that said, here are a few safety tips the County of Sacramento has compiled for residents to keep in mind as they plan their trip to the California State Fair that opens Friday, July 12.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid heat-related illnesses and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks as these can cause you to lose more body fluid.
Protect from the sun and heat: Protect yourself from the sun by using sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and weather-appropriate clothing. Take breaks in the shade or indoors when needed.
Wash hands often: Wash your hands often with soap and running water after touching animals, animal-associated equipment, or their environments (like a barn or enclosure). If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Be mindful of food safety: Food safety is just as important at a fair or festival as it is at a restaurant or at home. Don’t eat, drink, touch or put anything in your mouth or touch your eyes while in animal areas (barns, show arenas).
Stay home if you are sick: If you are not feeling well, stay home to prevent spreading the illness to others.
Safety around farm animals: Refrain from bringing personal items like toys, pacifiers, cups or strollers into the animal areas. Where possible, avoid direct contact with pigs, poultry, cattle and other animals that look or act ill.
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