"Our state fair is a great state fair -- don't miss it, don't even be late!" It's hard to resist a little Rodgers and Hammerstein when the South Carolina State Fair is underway. This year, in the wake of a fatal accident at another state's celebration, fairgoers have a little more than fun to think about.

That proved all too true for six people Wednesday night, when a piece of metal broke off a ride. None of the youngsters was seriously hurt when the metal fell. The staff at the fair's first aid station treated five for minor cuts and one for a bruised shoulder. Visits to the hospital weren't necessary.

Fair management isn't sure why the welding came loose on the ride, and the ride is closed until further notice.

An accident like this is surprising, certainly, but management encourages fairgoers to use common sense to avoid preventable accidents. At the same time, the Richland County Sheriff's Department has issued a list of precautions fairgoers can take to avoid being crime victims.

Property crimes can occur day or night. The sheriff's office says fairgoers should lock their car doors and stow valuables out of plain view. Also, small purses and bags are less tempting to thieves, and they are less likely to fall off the Ferris wheel and other rides.

For personal safety, fairgoers should take note of the two law officer command posts on the grounds. If children are lost, they should head for one of those posts or find a uniformed officer. Older kids at the fair without their parents should check in with their folks occasionally.

It's safer to travel in groups, too -- even just to find a restroom. Predators gravitate toward small groups or people traveling alone. They are also adept at spotting people who flash cash around.

The best defense is a good defense, as they say. Common sense and careful attention to young ones will keep the fair a great state fair for everyone.

Sources:

TheState.com, "Stay safe at the State Fair," Oct. 12, 2011

Post & Courier, "6 hurt on ride at SC State Fair," Oct. 13, 2011