Awareness

Summer is a great time to have fun, but large crowds can pose risks. Be aware of potential hazards and take precautions to stay safe at concerts, festivals, and sports events.

Always consider your medical conditions before attending an event, says André Bronkhorst, National Events Manager at ER24’s Specialised Medical Services Department. Be mindful of any conditions you may have, and whether there might be elements at the event that can exacerbate these conditions and place you in danger. Flashing lights, smoke machines, and bee stings can trigger medical issues. Take the precaution of carrying necessary medication, like inhalers or EpiPens.

Weather warning

While you may be determined to enjoy yourself no matter the weather, it's important to remember that weather conditions can affect safety, especially at outdoor events. Rain can create slippery areas, increasing the risk of falls, so be cautious. On the other hand, sunny weather can lead to sunburn, so it's wise to carry sunscreen and reapply it every two hours.

More water, less alcohol

Drinking water will help prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of heat stroke. “When you’re having fun, you may forget to drink enough water,” Bronkhorst says. “However, you may not realise how much energy you burn while dancing or socialising, so be sure to regularly top up your water bottle.”

Bronkhorst explains that many of the accidents and injuries ER24 responds to are due to excessive alcohol consumption. While drinking can be part of the fun, he advises moderation, as intoxication can make you clumsy and unsteady.

This leads to falls, which can result in injuries like cuts and abrasions. Drinking also impairs your judgment and leads to risky behaviour and poor decision making. If you've consumed alcohol, never drive. Ensure you have access to a ride-hailing service or arrange for a friend to be your designated driver.

Stay alert in a crowd

Bronkhorst says it’s important to bear in mind how easy it is to get swept up in a fast-moving crowd. “Our brains tend to switch off when we’re in a crowd: we act mindlessly, moving with the mass. That’s what makes crowds dangerous: if you’re at the back, you’re not thinking about what could be happening at the front. Stay alert, as mobs can form quickly. Move to the edges or outskirts as soon as possible, as most injuries occur to those people in the centre or at the front.”

Take note of exits

At indoor events, familiarise yourself with the emergency exits as soon as you enter the venue. Also, take note of where ER24’s medical services are located – you won’t want to waste time searching for them in an emergency.

Safeguard your children

Attending an event with children comes with added risks. While you may try your best to keep track of them, it's easy to get separated in a crowd. Bronkhorst notes that ER24 frequently receives calls from parents who can’t find their children. “If your children aren’t old enough to know your number off by heart, write it on a piece of paper and put it in their pocket, or even write it on their arm,” he says. “As soon as you arrive at the venue, choose a meeting spot in case you get separated. Remind your children to approach a uniformed security guard, police officer, or ER24 paramedic for help if necessary.”

  • Make time to save time. For real help, real fast, save 084 124 to your phone today.