Event Safety: Think Ahead

 

Is it a backyard or a beach?

BY C STONE | THE SUPERHOT /||' Event Safety '||\

With the upcoming summer festivals and getaways happening, you'll want to ensure it's a safe and enjoyable time.

To be safe at a large event, plan ahead by locating all emergency exits and first aid stations, setting a specific meeting point for your group, and staying sober and aware of your surroundings. 

Avoid standing in crushing or stagnant crowds, keep your belongings secure, and trust your instincts—if you feel uncomfortable, leave immediately.

Before You Arrive - Review the venue: Check the event's website or app for venue maps, prohibited/allowed items, and clear-bag policies. Pre-plan exits: Upon entering, physically locate the closest exits. 

Do not rely solely on the main entry, as it will likely be the most congested in an emergency. Establish a meet-up spot: If separated from friends or family, choose a highly visible, distinct, and static landmark to meet up (e.g., a specific vendor or information booth).

Share information: Make sure children or those who need assistance have an ID bracelet or tag with your contact information on it. 

During the Event Maintain situational awareness: Stay observant. If you hear a commotion, run away from it rather than toward it to see what is happening.

Stay hydrated and protected: Depending on the weather, bring sufficient water, sunscreen, and ear protection to prevent heat exhaustion or hearing damage. Watch your drinks: Never leave beverages unattended.

 To prevent being drugged, always keep your drink in your hand and cover it. 

Avoid confrontation: Steer clear of intoxicated people and avoid arguments, especially in high-emotion environments like sporting events or concerts.

Navigating Crowds - Keep moving: Never stand completely still or sit down in the middle of a dense, moving crowd.

Maintain breathing room: Keep your arms bent near your chest to protect your ribs and maintain a little pocket of air around you.

Exit diagonally: If you need to leave a tight crowd, do not cut straight through. 

Move diagonally along with the flow of the crowd to get to the perimeter. If you fall: Try to get back up immediately.

 If you cannot, curl into a ball to cover your head and chest, protecting your airway until there is an opening to stand.

Avoid the Mosh Pit:

 If you want to avoid rough crowd behavior, steer clear of the center-front and mosh pits.

Assist Fallen Attendees: If you see someone fall, immediately help them up to prevent trampling.

Trust Your Instincts: Move away from aggressive individuals or spontaneously surging crowds. Alert event security immediately if you notice unsafe behavior. 

Watch your drinks, and never, ever accept a drink from a stranger. If you leave your drink to go to the bathroom, don't ever resume drinking it. Ever.

We hope you enjoyed these tips!