It's very important to create a safe environment for the children and adults who come to your carnival. Here are some basic safety precautions:

When selecting the location for your carnival, avoid areas that have easy access to swimming pools, ponds, lakes, trampolines, jungle gyms and swing sets. If one of these is on the property, prevent access to the area and have responsible adults monitor the area at all times.

The use of amusement rides, pyrotechnics, fireworks, firearms, weapons, explosives, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited. These hazards should not be on the premises of the carnival site or in close proximity.

Be sure that there are enough responsible adults to help supervise each activity at your carnival.

Have at least one basic over-the-counter first-aid kit on the premises. Do not dispense medications of any kind to anybody. In case of an emergency call '911'.

When giving prizes to young children, make sure the prizes do not pose choking hazards (i.e., marbles, coins, balloons).

Don't leave small items such as prizes, game pieces, or tools unattended.

Responsible adults should always accompany and supervise small children at all carnival activities.

Use unbreakable materials such as plastic or paper whenever possible and avoid glass objects.

Make sure that walkways and pathways are free of obstructions at all times.

If electricity is necessary in a booth, place that booth as close to an electric outlet as possible. Make sure that there are no electrical cords and wires exposed. Do not run electrical cords across a walkway or pathway. Secure cords to the ground with duct tape or place chairs over cords to prevent tripping.

Dispose of popped balloons and balloon fragments immediately. Small pieces of balloons can pose choking hazards.

Serving food that requires refrigeration or heat is tricky. You must be careful to make sure food is kept cold (under 46° F) or hot (above 145.4°) temperature. This requires special equipment, including food thermometers. The best policy is to avoid foods that require refrigeration or heat to stay fresh.

Always have sufficient drinking water available to safeguard against carnival participants becoming dehydrated.