Parades! From the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City to the simplest small-town event, flatbed trailers are a staple feature. Usually pulled behind an SUV or pickup truck, flatbed trailers are often decorated as “floats” with bright sheets of fabric or plastic, metal or wood figures, chicken wire and balloons…even flowers. The safety of these trailers should be of primary importance—before, during, and after the parade.
First, anyone involved in decorating or riding on the float should go through safety training with parade organizers. Make sure that everyone understands all the rules. Here are just a few that should be followed.
While decorating the float, make sure that no decorative features interfere with operation of the vehicle or the trailer. From the front bumper to the rear and all the tires in between, the float should be in top-notch condition. Safety chains should be employed to ensure the flatbed trailer won’t get away from its hauling vehicle and all safety lights should be operable and visible.
During the parade, adults should supervise children and teens who ride on or walk near the truck and trailer. Have volunteer wheel walkers on hand to keep spectators away from the trailer and to inform the float’s driver of any potential problems with the vehicle or the trailer during the parade.
Finally: no alcohol! No matter what event the parade is commemorating, leave the beer and other alcoholic beverages out of the cab and off the flatbed.
Parades are intended to be fun, and following all the safety rules will ensure that they are.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment