Although the Nodaway County Fair is deemed safe for families, law enforcement officials want to remind fairgoers to be safe –– and especially watch out for their little ones.

Both Sheriff Ben Espey and Keith Wood, director of Maryville Public Safety, agree that while the fair is a “safe” environment, everyone should follow a few simple guidelines to ensure no one gets hurt.

The old “stranger danger” adage still applies in the small city as well as remembering to be mindful of your surroundings.

“We don’t have gangs or anything like that, but parents should still make sure to keep watch of their children,” Sheriff Espey said. “There are still many ways you can get hurt if you’re not careful.”

He added that in some cases children can be injured while simply stepping off rides to tripping over  electrical cords.

And, of course, there are possibly those who would kidnap a child –– even in Maryville.
“When you have a big event where there are a lot of people we don’t know, that means there could be those visiting who don’t have good intentions,” Wood said. “Just because this is a small area doesn’t mean bad things can’t happen. They can happen anywhere.”

Although the fair is held on public streets, Wood said bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and other wheeled transportation items aren’t allowed –– just like they aren’t permitted on public sidewalks.

Wheelchairs and electric scooters are, of course, permitted.

Alcohol is also not permitted to be brought to the fair. A beer garden is available for those wanting to imbibe.

Deputies and public safety officers will be patrolling the fairground area should an emergency arise.

“I trust the fair will be a very safe and family friendly event,” Wood said. “I think the organizers and everyone wants to be sure that people don’t have a bad experience and instead feel that they can come to this and bring their families.

“And if the need arises, we’ll be made available should anyone have any concerns.”