The Missouri State Fair takes Steps to Keep Visitors Cool and Informed

August 7, 2012, Sedalia, MO – Missouri State Fair officials are ready to accept visitors this Thursday at the 110 year celebration, with preparations in place to help ensure safety from inclement weather, including the prolonged high temperatures experienced throughout much of the state this summer. Fair Director Mark Wolfe said that safety has always been a priority at the Missouri State Fair, and this year is no exception.

“I want to assure fairgoers that measures are in place so that this year’s State Fair will be an enjoyable experience,” Wolfe said. “In addition to an experienced 24-hour emergency response team, a new text message service for severe weather alerts is available this year.”

The Missouri State Fair, together with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, will implement a voluntary cell phone text message service this year called Nixle. Wolfe said the service is being made available to help keep fairgoers informed about public safety, such as possible updates of inclement weather that could arise during the 11-day Missouri State Fair.

“The service will be activated only for weather warnings and other matters of public safety,” said Wolfe. “Messages are for informational purposes only and do not replace other warnings or directives in an emergency situation.”

There is no fee for the service, but individual cell phone text service charges do apply. To sign-up for the message service, cell phone users must send a text to 888777 with the passcode MOFAIR12 in the message area. Smartphone users can also scan a QR code available at www.mostatefair.com.

Fairgoers will also have many options for keeping themselves and their families cool while visiting the grounds. In addition to many air conditioned buildings, the Fair will have misting stations available and the Missouri State Fair Foundation will be helping guests stay hydrated at an affordable price by selling ice-cold bottled water for $1 again this year at stands located throughout the grounds. Coolers may also be brought into the Fair, though no alcohol is permitted and coolers are subject to inspection.

Medical personnel will also be located on the fairgrounds throughout the Fair, in the event that visitors require emergency assistance.

Missouri’s State Veterinarian will also be on the grounds, as will staff from the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health to monitor animals for health risks, including those related to heat. Experienced show superintendents will also be vigilant for signs of heated-related stress in both livestock and their exhibitors throughout the Fair.

The 110th Missouri State Fair will be held Aug. 9-19 in Sedalia, and is themed “Celebrate Then and Wow.” The Fair is also on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube. For more information about the Fair or to see a list of daily activities, visit www.mostatefair.com, or call 1-800-422-FAIR (3247).