Haunted Hayrides in the Fall Are Fun for All

Rural areas all over America conduct hayrides when the weather starts to turn cool in the fall. Hayrides can have a number of themes. I have been to apple-picking hayrides, pumpkin-picking hayrides, barn-dance hayrides and haunted hayrides.

The hayride that seems to attract most individuals is the "haunted hayride" or "spook hayride". Especially in the fall around Halloween. This type of activity usually goes over very well. This article will give you some ideas about how to plan a haunted or spook hayride, yet keep it safe.

First let's take a look at key safety factors. Rules of the Ride. Everyone likes a lot of straw in their wagon. However, straw can cause problems. Some individuals are allergic to it. Straw tends to carry dust from the field. Individuals with asthma need to be warmed before they journey. Long sleeve shirts can help keep individuals from getting their skin irritated from the straw. Straw is also slick. It is very easy to slip on loose straw and fall. It can get in your eyes as well. As the wagon moves. the some of the straw tends to blow from the air passing by.

It is important that all individuals riding in the wagon sit with their backs to the side walls of the wagon. If their is no side walls, place some bails in the center and have the riders sit with their backs to them. A moving wagon is dangerous. It is also very important that legs and arms stay inside the wagon at all times.

Explain to your riders why it is important to stay seated until the ride is over. Most people will know how important it is to do so. However, a reminder always helps.

The wagon route must be off the main road and away from traffic. If you need to use a road, pick one that has very little or no traffic. Map out a safe route ahead of time. Have rear in reflectors on the wagon. Make sure they are visible. The speed should always try to be at a steady rate. Slow if possible at all times. Quick changes in speeds can toss loose bodies around very quickly.

If the weather is cool, provide some old blankets to stay warm. They also help to keep the straw off. When you arrive at your destination, keep the wagon away from the fire area.

If you decide to have adult beverages, have them at your destination. It is not too wise to have them while people are riding on the wagon.

Mot that anything would happen, but having a first aid kit and a cellphone are always a good idea.

The Haunted Hayride. Use your resources well. If you go under several trees, hand sewing thread from the branches like spider webs. Place a few scarecrows beside trees along the route. We had one with an old hand sickle. Always be sure to go by, circle around, and even stop by old houses are barns. Especially if they have a history from the past. Hang a dummy from a tree by a rope.

Place a couple of individuals in costumes that hide along the route or the trail for special effects. We once used and old coffin and placed an individual in it. As we went by, he opened the lid and crawled out. He have used an old junked Hearst as a prop as well.

We always had a destination. When we reached it, we either started a fire or it was already going. Hot dogs, s'mores, apple cider, or marshmallows are great for hayrides. Once again, use your imagination. Some hayrides carry their food in coolers. Some have a person carry it out by themselves.

Hayrides have always been known as good socializer's and mixers. They are a great activity for the fall when the weather starts to turn cooler. A good theme and common sense safety measures can make for a great time.