POCAHONTAS, Ark. — As the Randolph County Fair enters its second day, safety measures are being credited with helping ensure a secure environment for attendees. According to Fire Safety Officer Scott Baltz, all rides undergo daily inspections before the gates open.
“Code enforcement checks all rides prior to operation each morning,” Baltz said. “Nothing operates until it has been checked multiple times.”
Baltz added that ongoing coordination between the Pocahontas Police Department, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, EMS, and other first responders plays a key role in maintaining safety. A Randolph County deputy or Pocahontas police officer remains on-site at all times during fair hours, while officers rotate shifts to ensure full coverage of the event.
The daily safety regimen includes more than just ride inspections. Crews also inspect wiring, fencing, and livestock areas while cleaning the grounds in preparation for attendees. Baltz emphasized that these precautionary steps have helped prevent any ride-related injuries so far.
“We’ve had our code enforcement come out here today already and check everything,” Baltz said. “The fire department’s checked. The deputies and police will be coming in and out to ensure everything’s in order.”
Baltz acknowledged the ongoing effort to manage safety demands each day while balancing the operational needs of the fair.
“There’s still stuff going on today trying to get everything ready to open — cleaning of the grounds, checking wiring, fencing, and livestock stuff,” he said.
The Randolph County Fair, a popular annual event in the region, offers rides, exhibits, and entertainment for families. Baltz noted that the goal of the safety measures is to allow attendees to enjoy the event worry-free.
With inspections and first responders on standby, officials aim to maintain a secure and positive experience for all fairgoers as the event continues.