- Supervision: Always have trained staff or handlers present to supervise interactions between participants and reptiles.
- Hand Washing: Participants must wash their hands thoroughly with hand cleaner before and after handling any reptiles to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- No Rough Handling: Instruct participants to handle reptiles gently and with care. Rough handling can stress the animals and potentially cause harm.
- Respect Boundaries: Encourage participants to respect the boundaries set by handlers when interacting with reptiles. Do not attempt to touch or handle reptiles without permission.
- No Eating or Drinking: Prohibit eating or drinking in the area where reptiles are present to prevent accidental ingestion of bacteria or other harmful substances.
- Proper Handling Techniques: Train participants on the proper techniques for handling each type of reptile to minimize the risk of injury to both the handler and the animal.
- No Flash Photography: Flash photography can startle and stress reptiles. Prohibit the use of flash photography during the show to ensure the well-being of the animals.
- Emergency Procedures: Have emergency procedures in place in case of accidents or incidents involving reptiles, including contact information for local animal control or emergency veterinary services.
- Allergies and Health Conditions: Ask participants if they have any allergies or health conditions that may be triggered by exposure to reptiles. Take necessary precautions or advise them accordingly.
- Respect the Reptiles: Encourage participants to appreciate and respect the reptiles for the fascinating creatures they are. Discourage behaviors that could cause distress or harm to the animals.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Require participants to wear closed-toe shoes to protect their feet from accidental bites or scratches.
- Age Restrictions: Consider implementing age restrictions for handling certain reptiles based on the size, temperament, and potential risk associated with the animal.
By adhering to these safety rules, you can ensure a fun and educational hands-on interactive reptile show while prioritizing the well-being of both participants and reptiles.