Ridgway Farmers Market Emergency Preparedness Plan
Market Name: Ridgway Farmers Market
Location: Hartwell Park, Ridgway Colorado
Plan Last Updated: July 15, 2025
The purpose of this Emergency Preparedness and Safety Plan is to provide clear, practical guidance to vendors, board members, and the Market Manager in the event of an emergency at the Ridgway Farmers Market.
While our market is small and located in an open-air park setting, we recognize the importance of being prepared for weather events, medical situations, disruptive behavior, and other potential safety concerns.
This plan is intended to be simple, easy to reference, and adaptable as needed. It is a living document that may evolve over time with input from local emergency services, the Town of Ridgway, and other market stakeholders. We also value the input and concerns of our vendors and community. If you have suggestions or edits for this plan, please email the board at board@ridgwayfarmersmarket.com.
This plan was created in collaboration with the Ridgway Farmers Market Board, with special thanks to Jan Waggoner (Former Board President) for initiating the conversation, and to Community Board Member Michelle Montague and Board Treasurer Jessie Bergman for contributing input and resources. Additional thanks to the Town of Ridgway, the Ridgway Fire Protection District, and the Marshal’s Office for their guidance and support.
General Liability Disclaimer
The Ridgway Farmers Market, its Board Members, Market Manager, volunteers, and vendors endeavor to maintain a safe environment for all participants. However, all emergency response actions—including first aid, medical assistance, and intervention during disruptive incidents—are performed voluntarily and at the individual’s own risk.
The Ridgway Farmers Market and its leadership do not assume liability for any injury, loss, or damages arising from emergency response efforts, nor for decisions made during urgent situations. Vendors and volunteers are encouraged to act within the scope of their training and comfort level.
Participants are responsible for their own safety and property while attending the market.
Local Emergency Services (Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies)
Ridgway Marshal’s Office (Police)
(970) 249-9110.
(Non-emergency)
Use for disruptive individuals, suspicious behavior
Ridgway Fire Protection District
(970) 626‑5311
Fire, propane incidents, support with evacuations
Ouray County Dispatch
(970) 249‑9110
(non-emergency)
24/7 dispatch for sheriff/fire/police
Ouray County EMS / Ambulance
911 or via dispatch
For any medical emergency
Town of Ridgway
(970) 626‑5308
Coordination, alerts, weather or air quality advisories
Internal Market Contacts
Market Manager
Jessie Bergman
(970) 497-0755
Primary contact during market hours
Board President
Marietta Johnson
(970) 765-6760
Secondary contact; often on-site
Board Vice President
Jenn Mueller
(435) 210-0016
Supports market coordination as needed
Board Treasurer
Jessie Bergman
(970) 497-0755
On-site most market days
Board Secretary
Brittany Duffy
(305) 216-4682
May assist with communications and vendors
A printed list of board members and vendor emergency contacts will be kept in the Market Manager’s booth binder. Contact details may be updated each season.
1. Weather & Air Quality Closure Protocol
The Ridgway Farmers Market operates rain or shine; however, safety remains our top priority. Certain weather or environmental conditions may warrant delaying, closing, or canceling the market to protect vendors, shoppers, and staff.
Conditions that may trigger market delay or closure:
High Winds: Sustained winds over 30 mph or strong gusts that pose a risk to tents, displays, or merchandise.
Severe Thunderstorms or Lightning: Visible lightning, thunder heard within 30 seconds of lightning, or an active weather alert in the area.
Poor Air Quality: AQI readings of 150 or above, based on official local/state sources (e.g. CDPHE, AirNow.gov), especially due to wildfire smoke.
Who makes the decision:
The Market Manager holds authority to delay, cancel, or close the market based on forecasted or on-site conditions.
If the Market Manager is unavailable, a designated board member will take responsibility for the decision.
On-site response steps:
In case of lightning, shoppers and vendors will be directed to seek shelter or return to their vehicles until the storm passes.
Communication will occur between board members and the Market Manager either in person or via group text, as applicable.
The Market Manager (or designee) will assess the situation and determine whether to resume, close early, or fully cancel the day’s market.
Vendor and customer notification:
If closure occurs before market setup, vendors will be notified via text or phone call as early as possible.
If the decision is made during market hours, vendors will be notified directly by the Market Manager or board members on-site.
Customers will be notified through:
Instagram and Facebook updates
2. Disruptive or Aggressive Customer Behavior
To provide guidance on how to safely and effectively handle disruptive, aggressive, or unsafe behavior by customers or visitors during market hours.
What Counts as Disruptive or Aggressive Behavior?
Loud yelling or threatening language
Intimidation or harassment of vendors, shoppers, or staff
Physical altercations or threats of violence
Interfering with vendor operations or customer flow
Uncontrolled animals or any behavior creating safety concerns
Dog Policy Reminder:
Dogs must be leashed at all times and under control of their owners.
Aggressive or unruly dogs causing distress or danger may be asked to leave.
Vendors should notify the Market Manager immediately if a dog is acting aggressively or unsafely.
Please do not engage or try to control dogs yourself — alert the owner or Market Manager.
Service animals are exempt and must be accommodated per ADA guidelines.
Steps to Take:
Stay Calm and Assess:
Do your best to remain calm and avoid escalating the situation. Keep your distance if the person or animal is aggressive.Attempt to Defuse:
If safe, politely ask the individual to calm down or leave the market area. Use a firm but respectful tone.Notify Market Manager or Board Member:
Alert the Market Manager (Jessica Darrow, (801) 518-3545) or nearest board member immediately. If the Market Manager is not present, notify the Board President (Marietta Johnson, (970) 765-6760).Avoid Physical Confrontation:
Never attempt to physically restrain or engage an aggressive individual or animal.Call Law Enforcement if Needed:
If the behavior escalates or becomes a threat to safety, call Ridgway Marshal’s Office non-emergency line at (970) 249-9110. For immediate danger, dial 911. Should be done sooner than later, if it escalates the situation may become more dangerous.Document the Incident:
After the situation is under control, write a brief report including date, time, people involved, and actions taken. Submit this to the Board Secretary.
Additional Notes:
Vendors are encouraged to prioritize personal safety over property or sales.
Having a clear, unified response helps maintain a safe and welcoming market environment.
Board members and Market Manager will follow up with any needed action after the event.
3. Missing Child / Person Protocol
To provide a clear and immediate response plan in the event a child or person goes missing during market hours, ensuring a quick, coordinated effort to locate them safely.
Steps to Take:
Immediate Notification:
As soon as a child or person is reported missing, the vendor or market attendee should notify the Market Manager immediately and also immediately contact Law Enforcement by calling the Ridgway Marshal’s Office at (970) 249-9110 (non-emergency) or 911 for urgent situations. If the Market Manager is not present, notify the Board President or nearest board member.Alert Vendors and Staff:
The Market Manager will inform all vendors and board members to be on the lookout. Describe the missing person’s clothing, age, and any distinguishing features clearly.Designate Search Areas:
Vendors and board members should discreetly check around their immediate areas, including restroom facilities, park entrances/exits, parking lots, and common gathering spots.Keep the Reporting Person Informed:
Maintain communication with the individual who reported the missing person, offering reassurance and updates.Do Not Publicly Announce:
To avoid causing panic among customers and other vendors, announcements should be limited to vendors, board members, and staff.Document the Incident:
After resolution, the Market Manager will complete a report detailing the event, actions taken, and outcomes, which will be shared with the board.
Additional Notes:
· Vendors are encouraged to keep a photo or description of their children or guests handy if they bring them to market.
· Encourage families to establish a clear meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
Vendor Quick Tips: Missing Child / Person
Notify Market Manager immediately if someone goes missing
Provide clear description: clothing, age, distinguishing features
Help discreetly check your area and nearby spots
Avoid public announcements to prevent panic
Market Manager calls Ridgway Marshal’s Office: (970) 249-9110 or 911 if urgent
Keep the reporting person updated and calm
After resolved, document the incident and submit report
4. Medical Emergencies
To provide guidance for responding promptly and safely to medical emergencies at the Ridgway Farmers Market.
Steps to Take:
Assess the Situation:
Quickly evaluate the severity of the medical emergency without putting yourself or others at risk.Call for Help:
For serious or life-threatening emergencies, dial 911 immediately. Provide clear information including the market location (Hartwell Park), nature of the emergency, and any known medical conditions if possible.Notify Market Manager or Board Member:
Inform the Market Manager (Jessica Darrow, (801) 518-3545) or nearest board member to assist and coordinate response.Provide Basic First Aid if Trained:
If you are trained and able, provide first aid or CPR while waiting for emergency responders. Do not attempt any procedure you are not comfortable or qualified to perform.Clear the Area:
Keep the area around the person clear to give them space and to allow emergency responders easy access when they arrive.Use First Aid Kit:
A first aid kit is available at the Market Manager booth for minor injuries.Stay Calm and Reassure:
Offer reassurance to the injured person and bystanders as best as possible.Document the Incident:
After the emergency is resolved, complete an incident report with details including time, nature of emergency, and actions taken. Submit to the Board Secretary.
5. Fire Safety & Propane Use
To ensure safe handling of propane and fire prevention at the Ridgway Farmers Market, minimizing risk and enabling a swift response in case of fire.
Guidelines for Vendors Using Propane:
Vendors using propane must have a working fire extinguisher on-site, easily accessible and suitable for gas and grease fires (Class B or multipurpose ABC extinguisher).
Propane tanks should be checked regularly for leaks or damage and properly secured during market hours.
Open flames or cooking devices must be attended at all times — never leave them unattended.
Maintain a safe distance between propane tanks, open flames, and customer areas.
Vendors should be familiar with how to turn off propane valves quickly in an emergency.
Market Manager & Board Responsibilities:
Ensure fire extinguishers are available at the Market Manager booth for emergencies.
Conduct periodic checks of vendor compliance with fire safety requirements.
Coordinate with Ridgway Fire Protection District for safety inspections and guidance.
In Case of Fire:
Alert everyone nearby and call 911 immediately.
Use the nearest appropriate fire extinguisher if it is safe to do so.
Market Manager or Board members will assist in evacuation if necessary.
Vendors and customers should evacuate calmly to the designated emergency assembly point (see Section 6).
Document the incident and notify the Board Secretary.
Additional Notes:
Vendors are responsible for the safety of their own equipment and should follow all applicable local fire codes.
The Market does not allow open fires or grills without proper permits and prior approval.
Smoking is prohibited within market boundaries.
6. Evacuation & Emergency Assembly Point
To provide clear instructions for safely evacuating the Ridgway Farmers Market in case of emergency and designating a safe assembly area.
Evacuation Triggers:
Severe weather (lightning, high winds, flooding)
Fire or hazardous material incidents
Active shooter or violent threat
Other emergencies as determined by Market Manager or Board leadership
Evacuation Procedure:
Alert: The Market Manager or Board President will announce the need to evacuate via public address, or direct communication.
Vendor Action:
Cease operations immediately.
Secure propane or electrical sources only if it’s safe to do so.
Do not attempt to pack up; leave product and gear behind if necessary.
Focus on safely exiting and helping others navigate the evacuation.
Customer Guidance:
Vendors and board members should direct customers toward the designated Emergency Assembly Point and away from congested streets or emergency access areas.
Designated Emergency Assembly Point:
Open grassy area north of the Ridgway Post Office, where the Summer Concert Series is typically held.
This location is visible, spacious, and removed from traffic and emergency staging areas.
It is accessible on foot from all vendor areas and reachable via:
Sherman Street to N Lena Street
Or northbound paths from N Railroad Street
Emergency Access Considerations:
Streets around Hartwell Park include Sherman Street, N Railroad Street, and N Lena Street.
Vendors should avoid blocking these streets with vehicles or tents during setup.
An emergency vehicle corridor must be maintained, especially along N Railroad Street and the east edge of the park.
Vendors should not park on sidewalks, fire lanes, or block access to hydrants or park entrances.
Leadership Responsibilities During Evacuation:
Market Manager:
Initiates evacuation and notifies emergency services if needed
Directs Board members and coordinates emergency response
Board Members:
Assist with guiding foot traffic out of the market
Help check that all vendors have cleared their areas
Direct people to assembly point and stay available to support responders
After Evacuation:
Vendors and customers should stay at the assembly point until the situation is assessed and cleared by law enforcement or emergency responders.
Market leadership will communicate updates as available.
Re-entry to the market area is not permitted until it is declared safe by officials.
7. Communication & Reporting
To outline how emergency situations are communicated during market hours and how incidents should be reported and documented afterward.
During an Emergency: How We Communicate
Primary Communication Tools:
Cell Phones: Used to contact emergency services, board members, or vendors when needed.
In-Person/Word of Mouth: In the absence of other tools, use calm, clear verbal direction to communicate urgent messages to vendors and customers nearby.
Message Guidelines:
Stay calm, use a firm and steady tone
Keep messages short and clear (e.g., “Evacuate to north of the Post Office” or “Call 911 for medical emergency at [vendor name]’s booth”)
Avoid creating panic — speak with reassurance and confidence
After an Emergency: Reporting & Documentation
Who Reports It?
The Market Manager or any involved Board Member is responsible for documenting emergency incidents.
Vendors may also submit written statements or incident reports if they were involved or witnessed the event.
What to Include in the Report:
Date and time of the incident
Names of individuals involved (if known)
Nature of the emergency (e.g., medical, disruptive behavior, evacuation, fire, etc.)
Actions taken (including who called 911 or intervened)
Outcome or current status
Any follow-up needed (e.g., vendor compliance, emergency response feedback)
Where to Submit:
All reports should be submitted to the Board Secretary, who will maintain a confidential incident record.
Board Secretary: Brittany Duffy — (305) 216-4682
Reports can be submitted in writing or emailed to: board@ridgwayfarmersmarket.com
Follow-Up Actions May Include:
Internal review by Board to determine if any changes or updates to this plan are needed
Contacting emergency responders for input or feedback
Communicating updates to vendors if policies or procedures are affected
8. Roles & Responsibilities Overview
To clearly define the responsibilities of the Market Manager, Board Members, and Vendors during emergencies to ensure fast, coordinated, and safe responses.
Market Manager
Primary point of contact in all emergency situations
Initiates evacuations, market closures, or shelter-in-place orders
Communicates with vendors, board members, customers, and emergency responders
Maintains contact with key board members throughout market hours
Carries or has access to the main first aid kit
Files incident reports with Board Secretary after an emergency
Coordinates re-opening or safe return to market area when appropriate
Board Members
Support the Market Manager by helping manage communication and crowd direction
Guide vendors and customers to evacuation routes or emergency assembly point
Use personal judgment to intervene in minor situations if Market Manager is not immediately reachable
Help document incidents and provide statements as needed
Ensure their contact information remains up to date and accessible for the Market Manager
Attend post-incident review if requested by the board
Vendors
Remain alert to announcements or visual cues of an emergency
Follow direction from the Market Manager or board members
Secure hazardous equipment (like propane) only if it is safe to do so
Evacuate quickly when instructed, and assist customers in doing the same
Report any injuries, suspicious behavior, or hazards to the Market Manager as soon as possible
Submit a written statement or report if directly involved in an emergency
Are responsible for ensuring their booths are safely set up, especially in regard to fire and weather safety
Emergency Responders
Once on site, law enforcement, EMS, or fire personnel become the lead authority
All market staff, vendors, and customers must follow their directions immediately and without question
Market leadership will support their work by helping to clear paths and provide situational details
Incident Report Template
Ridgway Farmers Market — Incident Report
Date of Incident: _____________________
Time of Incident: _____________________
Location (booth name, area of park, etc.): _____________________
Reported By (Name + Role): _____________________
Phone Number / Email: _____________________
Type of Incident (check all that apply):
☐ Medical Emergency
☐ Missing Child / Person
☐ Disruptive Behavior
☐ Fire or Hazard
☐ Evacuation / Weather
☐ Property Damage
☐ Other (please describe): ___________________________
People Involved (if known):
Name(s): __________________________________________
Vendor / Customer / Staff? ___________________________
Description of Incident:
(Please describe what happened — include relevant details such as what was seen/heard, what actions were taken, and any immediate outcomes.)
Action Taken:
☐ Called 911
☐ Provided First Aid
☐ Evacuated Area
☐ Notified Market Manager
☐ Notified Law Enforcement or Fire
☐ Other: __________________________________________
Outcome / Follow-Up Required:
Completed By: _______________________
Signature: ___________________________
Date Submitted: _____________________