As the Darke County Fair gets underway, local officials are asking visitors to keep safety in mind while enjoying the week’s activities. Emergency personnel and Fair Board members have made several preparations to help visitors navigate the grounds and respond quickly if a problem occurs.
One of the key safety features this year is a color-coded system along the midway. The markings give emergency crews a simple way to identify locations on the fairgrounds if help is needed. Fairgoers should call 911 during an emergency or notify a Fair Board representative.
Visitors should also be prepared for changing weather conditions. Spirit EMT personnel will be monitoring temperatures and staffing cooling and first-aid areas. Because portions of the fairgrounds have recently been wet, officials are reminding everyone to use extra care when walking and to stay out of sections that have been closed off.
Getting to and around the fair will also look a little different in some areas. Gate 7, near the Moose Lodge, is intended for vendors and visitors with multi-day passes rather than those purchasing daily admission. Free parking is available near Gates 5 and 6, while shuttle services will help transport visitors who need assistance getting closer to the fairgrounds.
Drivers should pay close attention to the temporary traffic pattern near Gate 1 and Birt Street, where certain turns will not be permitted. Fair officials are also reminding guests that scooters, hoverboards, Segways, e-bikes and similar personal transportation devices cannot be brought onto the grounds. Exceptions include mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs.
Fairgoers can stay informed about weather alerts, schedule changes and other important announcements by signing up for local emergency notifications and checking the Darke County Fair’s website and social media pages throughout the week.
