Medical Staff Tells Fair-Goers, Staff To Stay Hydrated In The Heat

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- It seems like every year, there are a few sticky, hot days at the Great Minnesota Get-Together.

Wednesday and Thursday will likely be those days.

The fair's medical staff is advising fair-goers and fair workers to take precautions. Water is a must have, according to Regions Medical Aid staff.

They advise those at the fair to drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses), often.

Because of the heat on Wednesday, crews at the fair were given breaks every 15 minutes instead of every 30 minutes, so as to hydrate themselves.

Bosses were also trying to keep things light. If they saw worn out workers, they pulled them until they got their energy back.

The medical aid staff said they see between 30 and 60 people with symptoms of dehydration on each hot day.

For Thursday, which is forecasted to be very hot, misters -- devices that spray mist -- will be available to cool off people near medical aid stations, fair officials aid. The medical stations are located near the 4-H building and the Heritage Square entrance.

There will also be 10,000 bandanas given away at information booths on a first-come-first-serve basis. The bandanas were ordered Wednesday and they will be ready to give out by mid-morning. Fair-goers can dip the bandanas in ice water and wear them.

Lastly, fair officials have asked high school marching bands not to wear their uniforms Thursday during the 2 p.m. parade. They should wear shorts and T-shirts instead.