Going to Fall Festival With Kids? Take This Photo First

The West Side Nut Club Fall Festival is officially underway, which means Franklin Street is about to be packed with food, rides, games, and a whole lot of people.

If you're bringing kids along, the Vanderburgh County Sheriff's Office and Evansville Police Department have shared a few simple things parents can do before diving into the Fall Festival crowds.

One of the easiest takes about five seconds.

Get our free mobile app

Take a Photo of Your Kids When You Arrive

Before you start exploring, take a full photo of your child with your phone.

If you become separated, you'll have a current photo showing exactly what your child is wearing that day. That can immediately be shared with officers helping search for them.

The West Side Nut Club also recommends:

• Show kids what uniformed first responders look like and point out West Side Nut Club members wearing their distinctive straw hats. Let children know these are safe people to approach for help.
• Put a parent's working phone number in a young child's pocket, shoe or sock, or write it on a rubber bracelet.
• Hold your child's hands while moving through crowded areas
• Choose a predetermined meeting place for older kids and adults in case your group becomes separated.
• Have older kids who are allowed to explore without you stay with a sibling or friend and check in by phone every 15 to 30 minutes.
• Avoid letting children younger than high-school age walk through the games and ride area without an adult on Friday and Saturday nights, when the area becomes especially congested.

A Few Tips for Adults, Too

The Nut Club recommends taking a photo of where you parked, locking your vehicle, and keeping valuables out of sight.

After dark, stick to sidewalks, watch carefully when crossing streets, and consider bright or reflective clothing so drivers can see you.

And with several hours of walking, crowds, and potentially warm weather ahead, don't forget the water.

Finally, if you see something suspicious while you're at the Fall Festival, find a nearby police officer or call 911.

A little planning before you hit Franklin Street can make the entire night a lot less stressful.