How to Prepare Funfairs for Adverse Weather

Preparing funfairs for adverse weather

Outdoor events, especially those featuring fairground rides and fairground side stalls and games, offer unique challenges when it comes to weather. Proper planning for weather contingencies is crucial to ensure the safety of your guests and the smooth operation of your event. Here’s how to plan for weather variations and select weather-appropriate attractions.

Seasonal Weather Patterns: Familiarise yourself with the typical weather conditions for your event's location and season. This knowledge can guide your initial planning and help you select attractions that are suitable for expected weather conditions.
Weather Forecasting: In the days leading up to the event, closely monitor weather forecasts. Be prepared for changes and have a plan for different scenarios, including rain, high winds, or extreme heat.
Rain or Wet Conditions: For events expected to encounter rain, consider attractions that can operate safely in wet conditions. Waterproof covers for smaller games, and choosing only larger funfair rides that are less affected by rain, can minimise disruptions. Ensure drainage is considered in your layout to avoid water accumulation in guest areas.
High Winds: High winds can pose a risk, particularly for certain fairground rides, attractions and structures like tents, bunting, or banners. Have a plan to secure loose objects and know the wind thresholds for each ride and attraction. It might be necessary to temporarily close certain rides for safety.
Extreme Heat: On hot days, consider attractions that offer some relief from the heat, such as water-based activities or shaded areas. Providing cooling stations, food vending tricycles with cold drinks or ice cream, and ensuring there are plenty of hydration points are essential measures.
Dynamic Scheduling: Have a flexible schedule that can be adjusted based on the day’s weather. Allocate slots for popular attractions during different parts of the day to disperse crowds and adjust for peak sun or potential rain times.
Indoor/Outdoor Mix: If possible, include both indoor funfair rides and outdoor attractions in your planning. This can offer guests respite from the weather and ensure that the event can continue regardless of external conditions.
Inform Guests: Clearly communicate any changes or weather-related advice to guests, both before the event via social media or email and on-site through announcements and signage.
Staff Briefing: Ensure all staff are aware of the weather plans and know how to act in different scenarios. This includes understanding when to implement wet weather plans or when to evacuate areas in case of severe weather.

Weather can greatly impact outdoor events, but with careful planning and consideration for weather-appropriate attractions, you can ensure a successful and smooth event. By being prepared for all conditions, from rain to shine, and communicating effectively with both staff and guests, you can mitigate weather-related risks and provide an enjoyable experience for all attendees.