COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Ohio State Fair is all about fun and coming together as Ohioans to celebrate our agrarian roots.
However, as with any event where hundreds of thousands of people gather in one place, logistics, and security are top of mind, especially for the Ohio State Highway Patrol, which is in charge of the safety plan for the state fairgrounds and patrons.
"It's tradition, we'll have a huge presence,” Sgt. Tyler Ross with the OSHP’s public affairs unit, said. “You'll see state troopers everywhere you turn.”
Ross is just one of dozens of troopers who will be out at the fairgrounds for the next couple of weeks. His advice: prepare and plan.
"Make sure when you come in you know where you're going to park," he said. “If you are coming with a larger family, make sure you're staying in communication with each other, and you have the ability to. Because with this many people in one place, as you see with concerts and stuff sometimes, sometimes Wi-Fi and things don't get through."
That's especially important with children. If you get separated, tell them to find a state trooper immediately. Caregivers and parents should do the same.
"Undoubtedly, with this many people, there are going to be those situations, unfortunately,” Ross said. “The quicker the better (you find a trooper), and we'll help you get reconnected with your family."
With it being an election year, higher profile politicians tend to visit the fair-- this coming on the heels of the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump which still has people on edge.
"We won't discuss safety protocol just due to security measures; however, we have those safety plans in place," Ross said. "So whether is a VIP or politician or a general fairgoer... our job is to ensure the safety of everyone.”
