Wheatbelt hosts annual safety fair for area youth

The Wheatbelt Safety Fair’s exact birthdate is a little murky.

It was created “many years ago, probably nearly 20,” according to one of the founders, Pam Wieser.

Yet the event’s purpose remains as clear as ever. Wieser, along with Diane Steffens, founded the fair to promote safety among fourth, fifth and sixth graders in things that are pertinent to their ages and everyday life.

Safety presentations included topics about pets, lawnmowers, electrical and gaslines.

Wieser says that it is “neat to see the kids listening” to the presenters as they demonstrate safe habits.

The day has a “fair like atmosphere”--a fun and interactive way for children to learn about safety, Wieser said. Children rotate from one presenter to the next, with each session lasting about 15 minutes.

Presenters this year include Wheatbelt, City of Sidney, Union Pacific Railroad, Sidney Vet Clinic, Sidney Police, Nebraska State Patrol, John Deere 21st Century Equipment, NRD and Source Gas. Barb Enfield and her son Dakota, along with Andrea Lake, provided cotton candy for the children to enjoy while the trio demonstrate how to make the treat. Enfield and Lake have been doing this presentation from the beginning according to Wieser.

Almost 200 adults and children participated in the safety fair this year. Wieser says that there are usually more children attending, but this year Sidney Public Schools sent only the fourth graders.

According to event organizer, Michelle Hodges, invitations are sent to area schools, including home schools. The event takes place every three years so that it cycles through once for all fourth, fifth and sixth grade students.

The event can be held in other areas during the two year break, before returning to Sidney.