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run out of hot dogs. Also have a "bucket person" assigned to, at the most, three of the contestants in case of vomiting. This is a job no one will want, but it is necessary. Don't forget to have an additional suitable receptacle (trash can, etc.) is available for the dumping of the individual buckets, just in case. Special red bags marked medical or human waste (depending on local codes) can be obtained at local medical supply stores. Be sure to have at least one person trained in first aid/CPR in case medical problems, such as choking or fainting. Have that person standing to in the front of the spectators and give him/her the authority to stop an individual contestant or the competition is s/he feels it is necessary. Include this as a clause in the rules you have set. This is especially important if children are competing and if the hot dog eating contest is being used a fundraiser.

Don't forget to have someone taping the contest as well as someone taking photographs. Be willing to have copies made, if someone would like one. Selling these tapes/DVD can also be a good way to raise additional money for the charity. Posting pictures, with the permission of those in the photographs, on the internet is a good way to spread the word about the organization. This is especially true if you plan on making it an annual event. Also taping is an excellent idea - just in case a record is broken. Many cities and states have records specific to their location. Don't forget about the "Guinness Book of World Records;" it could happen!

Once a winner has been declared, create as much fanfare as possible when giving out the prizes. This is an excellent time to bring out "Uncle Sam" and "Betsy Ross" again to do the honors. Having children award the prizes is also a nice touch. The number and types of prizes will vary upon your budget (and the amount of money raised, if used as a fundraiser). They can be as simple as a packages of hot dogs and hot dog buns or as elaborate as vacation packages and vehicles.

Try to be prepared for anything and everything, even though this is impossible to do. Unfortunately, the unexpected will pop up and try to throw you off task. A woman could go into labor, there could be a fire, a fight could break out, an earthquakeyou know, how life just happens. Be ready for those strange incidents that always seem to happen at the most inopportune times. Remain calm and collected - do not panic. Handle any problems that may arise quickly, quietly, and as discreetly as possible. Don't let it dampen the merry mood. Chances are it isn't the end of the world and whatever happened will become funny conversation-starters later.

With just a little planning, it is easy to have a hot dog eating contest. Whether it is a backyard get-together for friends and family or a fundraiser for a charity, organizing this event is simple. With all of the planning and work, do not forget to have fun while celebrating America's Independence Day!

Learn more about this author, Emma Riley Sutton.
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