As the weather gets nicer, many Posts will plan outdoor events for members and guests. Everyone enjoys spending time outside, participating in a parade, having a picnic or just enjoying the great outdoors. But for event attendees to enjoy a safe outing, organizers need to spend some time thinking about what might go wrong.

Every event faces safety risks and outdoor events are no different. Here are the top 10 safety risks of outdoor events to prepare for before your next event.

Top 10 Safety Risks of Outdoor Events

1. Food Safety

Most outdoor events don’t feel complete without a picnic, but food safety should be top of mind. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Separate uncooked meat from other food and cook thoroughly to recommended temperatures. Keep dishes out of direct sun and refrigerate leftovers.

2. Wildlife Interactions

Wildlife interactions are possible anytime people gather outdoors, so be prepared. Keep trash covered to deter pests such as wasps and yellow jackets. Keep guests clear of dense brush and tall grasses. Bring a stocked first aid kit to treat minor bites and stings.

3. Fire Hazards

Fire safety can be a bigger issue outdoors than indoors, so take appropriate precautions. Check with local authorities for burn bans and site safety. Clear nearby debris before lighting a fire. Monitor all bonfires, gas grills and charcoal grills. Always keep fire extinguishers handy.

4. Heat Waves

Extreme heat can be a danger during an outdoor event for your attendees. Monitor weather forecasts for excessive heat watches, advisories or warnings. Plan to offer shade access, activity breaks and water stations. Stay alert for signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

5. Severe Weather

Weather the day of the event can be unpredictable. Besides a heat wave, you could face thunderstorms, lightning, hail or a tornado. Prepare by monitoring weather forecasts, designating shelter areas and having communication and evacuation plans if severe weather strikes.

6. Medical Emergencies

A medical emergency can happen any time, but outdoor events can be especially risky. Make sure your organizers have a stocked first aid kit, event communication system and a way to contact first responders if needed. Learn the signs of heart attack, stroke and other serious illnesses.

7. Lost Children

Think about safety for children and families at your event. It’s common for children to get separated from parents in a crowd. Have a method to communicate with event workers to reunite lost children. For added safety, consider having an event perimeter to keep kids from wandering off.

8. Accidents and Injuries

Outdoor spaces and planned event activities can increase the risk of an accident or injury. Pay particular attention to pools or nearby bodies of water, raised platforms and intoxicated attendees. Plan safe activities and discourage rough play and irresponsible alcohol consumption.

9. Event Security

A fun outdoor event can attract attention from nearby non-attendees. Be sure to think about event security if you will have your event in a busy park or public place. Consider setting up an event perimeter with entry and exit procedures for your attendees.

10. Traffic Accidents

Accidents involving people or vehicles are always possible at outdoor events, but proper planning can help to minimize the risk. Plan for designating parking beforehand. Use signage and volunteers to ease vehicle and pedestrian congestion. Encourage designated drivers and safe driving.

With the proper precautions in place, outdoor events can be great fun for everyone at the Post. Make sure your Post is covered for your next event. Contact Lockton Affinity today.