The Tuscarawas County Fair is right around the corner—opening September 15—and it’s one of the highlights of the year for many families. From cheering on 4-H participants and visiting the animals, to enjoying delicious fair food and riding rides, there really is something for everyone.
To make sure you and your family can enjoy every moment, Newsymom and the Tuscarawas County Health Department are sharing a few hygiene and food safety tips.
1. Wash Your Hands Often
With animals, food and plenty of shared surfaces, clean hands are a must. 3 Key times to stop and wash with soap and water:
- After visiting the animal barns.
- Before eating.
- After using the restroom.
Hand sanitizer is a good backup when necessary, but soap and water are best—especially after touching any animals.
2. Keep Food Safety in Mind
Fair food is definitely part of the fun! Make sure hot foods are served hot, cold foods are served cold, and always wash your hands before eating. A good rule of thumb is to eat it or refrigerate it within two hours of purchasing it. Finally, keep your food in food areas and out of the barns.
3. Protect Yourself And The Animals
The barns are a favorite stop for many, especially our kids. Here are few key tips for keeping everyone healthy while visiting the animals.
- Avoid eating or drinking in animal areas and wash up before eating afterward.
- Be sure to sanitize any pacifiers, bottles, or toys that make their way onto the ground- especially where animals are housed.
- Do not kiss or snuggle the animals and keep hands away from your face while in the barn.
We love our furry friends.. It’s great to keep in mind that our germs can make them sick and their germs can make us sick.
4. Stay Hydrated and Listen to Your Body
It’s easy to lose track of time while running around the fair. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. If you or your child start to feel unwell—whether it’s from heat, food, or anything else—take a break and rest. It’s better to step away and take a little rest than to push through and miss out on the rest of the fun.
Enjoy the Fair Safely
The Tuscarawas County Fair is a wonderful chance to make memories with family and friends. By taking these simple precautions, you can help ensure your fair experience is safe, fun, and healthy for everyone.
For more tips on staying healthy at fairs and festivals, visit Ohio Department of Health: Stay Healthy This Fair Season.