Outdoor markets may be affected by high winds, thunderstorms, lightning, hail, heavy rain and extreme heat. Conditions can change quickly, so markets should have a clear severe-weather plan.

Market managers can consider:

• Monitoring forecasts and official weather alerts before and during market hours.
• Naming the person responsible for weather decisions.
• Setting clear conditions for pausing or closing the market.
• Identifying safe shelter and keeping emergency routes open.
• Planning how vendors and shoppers will be notified.
• Deciding when canopies, umbrellas and equipment should be secured or removed.

When thunder, high winds or other dangerous conditions develop, vendors and shoppers should be directed to appropriate shelter. Call 9-1-1 for a serious injury or medical emergency.

Weather procedures may vary by location. Check current guidance from your municipality, insurer, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the ministry or authority responsible for your operation.

Markets bring people, vehicles and equipment together, which can create a risk of illness or injury. A clear emergency plan can help market teams respond calmly and quickly.

Market managers can consider:

• Naming an emergency contact or designate.
• Keeping a stocked first aid kit in an accessible location.
• Making sure emergency access routes remain clear.
• Having a way to communicate with vendors and shoppers.
• Assigning someone to meet and guide first responders.

During an emergency, call 9-1-1 when needed and follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Avoid moving an injured or ill person unless there is an immediate danger, and provide first aid only within your level of training.

Document the incident and share the report with the appropriate people, such as the market board, property owner or insurer.

Emergency planning and first aid requirements may vary. Check with your municipality, insurer and the ministry or authority responsible for your operation.

Safe food handling helps protect customers and maintain trust in local food. Risks can vary depending on the product, ingredients, preparation method, temperature control and storage.

Market managers can help by:

• Keeping an up-to-date list of vendors and products.
• Encouraging food-handler training.
• Asking vendors for relevant food-safety documentation when appropriate.
• Connecting with the local public health unit before each market season.

Vendors can help by:

• Following safe practices during preparation, transportation, storage and sale.
• Understanding whether their products may be considered higher or lower risk.
• Completing any inspections, assessments or training that may apply.
• Giving customers clear storage and transportation instructions when needed.

Requirements may vary by product and location. Check with your local public health unit and the ministry or authority responsible for your operation.

Common concerns include trips and falls, unsecured canopies and vehicle movement. Market managers and vendors can help reduce these risks through careful planning and regular site checks.

Market managers can:

• Use a clear site plan for stands, walkways, parking, services and emergency access.
• Inspect aisles, parking areas and vendor spaces for hazards.
• Keep cords, hoses, equipment and products out of walkways.
• Set clear expectations for setup, takedown and canopy anchoring.
• Plan how vendor and customer vehicles will safely enter, park and leave.
• Use signs, barriers, staff or volunteers where additional traffic control may be helpful.

Vendors can:

• Complete setup before the market opens and keep products within their stand.
• Remove or clearly mark trip and slip hazards.
• Secure canopies, umbrellas, weights and ropes so they do not create hazards.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the market’s severe-weather procedures.
• Keep vehicles outside the market during operating hours unless otherwise approved.

Safety needs can vary by location and market setup. Check with your market manager, insurer, property owner, municipality and the ministry or authority responsible for your operation.