Parades bring people together to commemorate and have fun while staying safe at the same time. Here are a few safety tips you should keep in mind as part of any parade event: no matter whether it is a participant or spectator.

Always remain aware of your surroundings. As an observer of a parade, finding an ideal vantage point should not interfere with traffic flow or emergency exits. Too close proximity to the curb increases your risk of vehicles or floats striking you; stay aware and listen closely for instructions from organizers or volunteers if participating.

During parades, ensure children and animals are kept within arm's length, with both hands in reach. Hold onto each other while out and about, and use carriers or strollers as needed to protect infants or toddlers. Use identification tags if necessary to prevent separation and ensure safety for all involved.

Stay behind barricades or designated viewing areas. In most parades, organizers place barricades along the route of the procession to keep spectators away and ensure safety for participants and attendees alike. Please respect these boundaries by not crossing barricades; wait for a pause in procession before crossing directly, use designated crossing points that are monitored by law enforcement or volunteers if crossing.

Stay hydrated, wear appropriate attire for the weather conditions, and apply sunscreen. Staying hydrated during outdoor parades that last several hours requires staying hydrated with water intake, applying sunscreen, wearing lightweight, breathable clothes to protect you from direct sun rays, and applying umbrellas/hats/sunglasses to shade from harsh elements are key to be at their best performance.

Be careful when driving around vehicles and floats at parades. These large machines can be difficult to control when there are many people nearby; try not to run into or be hit by one accidentally. Avoid being hit by other floats and vehicles either accidentally running into you or bumping you over, do not climb onto or touch moving floats without permission, and remain aware of your surroundings as you cross the parade route.

Follow pedestrian and traffic laws when participating in marches or marches that use vehicles. Observe traffic signals and signs as instructed by law enforcement officials directing traffic. Avoid blocking emergency access by parking in designated areas, utilize pedestrian signals and crosswalks safely when walking from/to parade route locations.

To prepare for emergencies, know first-aid stations and exits on the parade route, carry fully charged mobile phones with preloaded emergency contacts, program emergency numbers into them, carry extra batteries with pre-programmed emergency numbers, and make yourself or someone available to volunteers or emergency responders if injured during a parade event.

Safety precautions at parades are vitally important, not only to avoid injuries but also so that all participants and spectators alike have an enjoyable experience. Being aware of your surroundings while keeping kids and pets under supervision are both key ways you can increase safety during parades.

For inquiries related to traffic accident laws or injury laws, or to hire an accident attorney, contact the legal professionals of Bautista LeRoy LLC through this number 816-221-0382 or email them at [email protected]. Serving Kansas City, MO and KS as well as surrounding areas of Benton County and St. Louis.