MOUNT VERNON – The 2014 Knox County Fair kicks off Saturday, July 19th and continues through July 26th. Sheriff David Shaffer offers several safety tips to keep kids safe during the fair.
*Keep your children in sight and teach them to stay close to you as it’s easy to become separared in large crowds.
*Talk to your children about what being lost means and what to do if they become lost. Have a plan, and then play the “What if…” game to ensure they understand the plan. “What if Mommy gets separated?”, “What if you get lost?”, or “Who is safe person to ask for help?”, etc.
*Should your child get lost DON’T look for them alone. IMMEDIATELY contact loca security.
*Have your children carry or wwear emergency information that tells how to reach you. Include cell numbers, home phone number, eergency contact, important medical information, and anything else you think is important.
*Dress kids in bright colors to make them easier to spot. Make a game of remembering what color everyone is wearing that day. If you are with a large group, wear matching T-shirts to help identify your group.
*Consider giving your elementary age children a cell phone while you’re out in a crowd as a just-in-case backup.
*Use your phone to take a photo of each child before you leave, this way you will know exactly what they were wearing and have a very current photo should you need it.
*Teach your children it is ok to say NO and GET AWAY from any person or situation making them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused. TRUST THEIR FEELINGS, and be sure to TELL a trusted adult if anything happens to make them feel this way.
*Pay attention to weather forecasts and prepare appropriately. Wear sunscreen, applying often, and wear sunglasses to protect you from harmful UV rays.
*Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
*Know where first aid area is located should you need to access it quickly.
Visit www.knoxcountysheriff.com for more safety information.
