Regions Hospital has tips for a safe Minnesota State Fair experience

Regions Hospital EMS is ready for its 14th consecutive State Fair as the official first aid provider.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Regions Hospital Emergency Medical Services sees everything under the late summer sun, from blisters and bug bites to sunburns and dehydration, at the Minnesota State Fair. With this year’s fair one week away, the experts at Regions EMS have tips, as well as some reminders, for a safe experience at the Great Minnesota Get-Together.

Regions EMS enters its 14th consecutive Minnesota State Fair as the official first aid provider and will be onsite all 12 days (Aug. 25-Sept. 5) in first aid stations near the West End Market and inside the 4-H building. Masks are required inside first aid stations as they are health care facilities. Medical treatment is free, with EMTs, paramedics, nurses and doctors from Regions Hospital staffing during fair hours. On average, Regions EMS treats about 4,500 people at the fair. Fairgoers needing care will be checked into the stations through a controlled entrance.

Items to bring to the fair

• Allergy medication for yourself or your kids: Bee stings and allergic reactions to animals and food are common. So be prepared by bringing your prescribed medications, such as an EpiPen, in case of an emergency.
• Other prescriptions: If you take a daily medication, bring that, too. We often see patients who have complications related to missing a dose. This also includes inhalers for asthma and diabetic medications, including insulin.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: At the fair, there’s usually a lot of sun and always a lot going on, so headaches are a big reason patients come see us for care. Don’t forget to pack the pain reliever your doctor recommends for you.
• Bandages: One of the most common injuries we see is cuts, especially for kids. Take care of small cuts and blisters from walking by bringing a variety of Band-Aid or adhesive-bandage sizes.
• Water: Yes, you can bring your own water to the fair. Pack icy, cold water bottles for your entire family. Make sure you refill it throughout the day and encourage kids to stay hydrated with water. Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce servings of water per day.
• Hand sanitizer: Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer regularly, including before eating and after touching animals, exhibits or other attractions.

Sun and heat protection
The following items can help against heat-related illness:

• Sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher (reapply every 2 hours)
• Lightweight, breathable clothing and wide-brimmed hats, especially for kids.
• Portable fans to help cool off faster
• Water bottles for the family
• Understand the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how the medications you take can increase your risk

An expert from Regions EMS is available ahead of and during the fair to talk about how the team prepares to provide care for a temporary “city” of 2 million people over a 12-day period. They can discuss the most common medical conditions providers see at the fair and when fairgoers should seek medical attention; the inner workings of the first aid stations and how they resemble a mini hospital; and tips for staying safe while navigating the fair.