GREEN COVE SPRINGS—The Clay County Sheriff's Office is preparing for the county's busiest event, which has grown bigger every year. 

The Clay County Agricultural Fair is a beloved tradition throughout Northeast Florida. It's a safe, fun, family-friendly event partly because CCSO works around the clock. 

While fairgoers enjoy the rides, fireworks, carnival games and food, CCSO won't be far away. While fairgoers make memories, CCSO will think ahead. 

CCSO command will be posted at the Clay County Emergency Services. The force had a briefing in the executive conference room last Tuesday just before the Fairground Luncheon, the kickoff for fair festivities. 

CCSO went over contingency plans for multiple worst-case scenarios –a weather emergency, an active shooter, a missing child, a medical emergency, and a fatality. 

Procedures will be practiced as April 4 approaches, when the gates officially open for the fair. A reference binder is chock-full of what to do because a moment's hesitation during an emergency can mean life or death. 

More than 400 safety and 11 dispatch positions will utilized during the event. Overt and covert protections will be provided, and cameras will monitor the festivities below. 

CCSO expects a swell of traffic, so they will be making timely Facebook posts throughout the fair's duration, informing those driving down. While traffic is expected to be an issue, the roads were determined to be in excellent shape. The fairgrounds, itself, were too. 

In a worst, worst-case scenario, CCSO will coordinate with units from other agencies in case of a disaster. 

CCSO is working hard to make this year's fair the best yet to continue to be a beloved tradition where memories – not worries – are made.