Ensuring Safety and Excitement at the Iconic Big E Fair

As the highly anticipated Big E fair in West Springfield, Massachusetts, prepares to open its gates, organizers are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and well-being of the expected massive crowds. From meticulous ride inspections to stringent food safety measures, the Eastern States Exposition is committed to providing a thrilling and secure experience for all attendees.

Elevating the Fair Experience with Unwavering Safety Protocols

Ride Inspections: A Rigorous Commitment to Safety

The Big E's amusement rides undergo a comprehensive inspection process, ensuring the highest levels of safety for fairgoers. As the rides are assembled and disassembled for each event, the fair's own ride engineers, along with independent contractors, closely monitor every aspect of the rides' operations. This multi-layered approach, combined with the inherent safety features of the portable amusement industry, provides a robust safety net for visitors.The Eastern States Exposition President and CEO, Gene Cassidy, emphasizes the importance of these inspections, stating, "The mobile industry is a very, very safe industry to be sure because of the inspections that go on as a routine." With dedicated teams on-site throughout the fair's 17-day run, each ride is meticulously reviewed daily, leaving no room for compromise when it comes to public safety.

Food Safety: Upholding the Highest Standards

Ensuring the quality and safety of the food served at the Big E is a top priority for the organizers. The fair relies heavily on the local health department to monitor the food vendors, with inspections and spot checks conducted throughout the event. From refrigeration temperatures to the quality of cooking oils, every aspect of food preparation is scrutinized to safeguard the well-being of attendees.One of the unique measures implemented at the Big E is the requirement for vendors to change their cooking grease daily. As Cassidy explains, "It's very expensive but it's a requirement that our grease get processed out every day and each day when we open it's all fresh." This commitment to food safety underscores the fair's dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable culinary experience.

Security Measures: Ensuring a Peaceful Celebration

The Big E's security team, in collaboration with the West Springfield Police Department, is well-equipped to maintain a safe and secure environment for all fairgoers. Recognizing the potential impact of social media on crowd behavior, the organizers closely monitor various platforms to stay ahead of any potential issues.Cassidy emphasizes the expertise of the West Springfield Police Department, stating, "The town of Westfield has a very uniquely qualified police department. West Side PD has been doing the fair with us for 108 years. They're really good at it. I don't know that there's a better assemble of people in public safety that are here in the town of West Springfield."This longstanding partnership and the police department's deep understanding of the fair's operations ensure a seamless security presence, ready to address any concerns that may arise during the event.

Embracing the Spirit of Community and Tradition

The Big E fair holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, with a rich history spanning over a century. As vendors and local businesses prepare for the influx of visitors, a sense of excitement and camaraderie permeates the air.Tony Calabrese, a West Springfield restaurant owner with multiple stands at the fair, embodies this community spirit. He acknowledges the diligence of the health department's inspections, stating, "Not only did they come by the first time for inspection, they popped in throughout the fair three or four times, so, you know, you better be standing tall and ready for that, you know what I mean."This commitment to upholding the highest standards, coupled with the fair's deep-rooted traditions, creates an atmosphere of trust and anticipation among both vendors and attendees. As the gates open on Friday, the Big E is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends excitement, community, and unwavering safety protocols.