Parade Safety
Contributed by The City of Wasilla
While there are safety tips for just about any event, these parade safety tips are on the must-follow list for family safety:
Keep the family behind any barricades, on sidewalks, and in designated safe areas. If there are barricades set up at the parade you are attending, they are there for a reason as it has been identified by a safety officer in authority that the barricades are necessary. Talk to children about the importance of remaining behind barricades. Ensure no one is leaning on or knocking barricades over as these actions can result in injuries themselves. Do not run into the street. Floats cannot stop quickly.
For the sake of your toes. Keep your family in designated safe zones with your feet tucked out of the way of oncoming floats and vehicles. Identify designated lost/found missing persons areas. Before you head out to the parade, research if there are any designated areas where lost children are brought to meet their families. Point out any police or safety officers to your kids as you make your way to your parade viewing spot. If there are no special designated areas identified by the parade professionals, designate your own area where kids can meet you if you get separated.
Stay charged. Before leaving your house, make sure everyone has charged their phones. If older children have phones, make sure they bring them with them in case of an emergency. Plan a buddy system. If you are going to the parade with a large group of people, or you have a large family, set up a buddy check before you leave. Pair off members of the family in groups of two. Make sure there is always an older person with the youngest children. Let family members know that they must stay with their buddy and not separate for any reason.
Be careful. You may decide to place a small child on your shoulders for the sake of their viewing pleasure; be careful, crowds can shift forward suddenly and unexpectedly, making it easy to get knocked over.
Check the weather forecast. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. If you are outdoors, you could be exposed to long periods of direct sunlight. Bring sunscreen and reapply regularly.
Bring water and snacks. Restaurants, food vendors, and convenience stores could be crowded with long wait times. Pack food and water so you do not have to search for it.
The most important part of a parade is creating memories and enjoying family fun! Talk to your children about the potential hazards and emergencies that may arise and go over your parade safety tips before it’s time for the event.
When everyone is prepared, a safe time means you’ll have plenty of room for family parade fun!