Some important safety ideas
The first and foremost concern about wearing a mascot costume is safety! Be aware of what can happen
and take every precaution to prevent accidents. When done safely, performing as a character in front of large crowds can bring endless joy and provide memories that will last a lifetime!
Rowdy fans
Have your shadow keep the crowd under control. Being tripped, dragged down or having your tail or ears grabbed will prevent you from performing to the best of your ability. While in a
mascot costume, you are fairly helpless. In the event that you are approached by intoxicated fans, signal for your shadow or local security. The tails and ears are
designed to tear away and be easily reattached, however you can still be pulled down if control is not
maintained.
Fire
We do not flame-proof the materials because the chemicals can be washed out or worn off. Flame-proofing needs to be done on a regular
basis. Your local fire-department can advise you about flame-proofing, or just give us a call. If you feel
that there is any chance you will be around an open flame it is best to take precautions by flame-proofing
your costume and keeping a fire-extinguisher handy. Most of our fabrics are made from acrylic fibers
and have a tendency to melt and smolder rather that burn. The main concern is getting out of the suit easily and quickly. Again, have a "shadow" to help you at all times.
Common sense
Mascots and fire do not mix! We heard about one
team that wanted to have a bonfire on the field during half-time and they proceeded to use a charcoal
grill to hold the fire. Well, the charcoal lighter fluid flared up and the grill got turned over and their
Thunderbird costume came close to going up in smoke. Fortunately, they had a "shadow" helper and
very little damage was done to the costume.
When flicking cigarette lighters by an audience was a fad , we heard about some close calls. We
have found that enthusiasm and mob psychology along with alcohol and immaturity can be a dangerous
combination. This is why you should have a support team that stays one step ahead of the crowd.
Abuse
There are people who think it is funny to actually beat up on a mascot. In fact, movies such as Ace
Ventura and Nine Months have featured such incidents in their storyline. The movies are obviously
slap-stick, but you should expect a few malicious people in every crowd. Perhaps they are jealous of
the attention the mascot is getting or are unaware of how unprotected the person is that is wearing the
costume. The padding and oversized shoes do not change the fact that there is a real person inside.
Shy fans
There are some people who are very frightened of clowns and mascot
costumes. They will scream and panic when a mascot comes near them. Do not allow yourself to be
forced on such people. Usually they grow out of the fear and eventually come to love you just like the
rest of the crowd.