Outdoor concerts are a popular attraction, especially during hot summer months. Take time to plan properly before the event. Following are a few tips to ensure a safe time.
- Be smart. If alcohol is involved, designate a sober driver ahead of time. Consider purchasing your sober driver's ticket and/or food and alcohol-free beverages for them as a thank you!
- Get familiar with your surroundings upon arriving at the event. Look around. Locate bathrooms, drink and food stands, and, most importantly; first aid stations, exits, and security areas. Whether by yourself or with friends, plan a safe exit route in the event you need to leave quickly. Stay in contact with each other and choose a meeting place to gather upon your departure.
- Be prepared for the sun. Upon arrival, check for shady spots to get out of the sun. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and a sun umbrella, if allowed. Follow package instructions for sunblock application.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of clean water. Alcoholic beverages may quench your thirst, but remember, you run a greater risk of dehydration with alcohol, especially on a hot day. Drink water in between drinks containing alcohol.
- Use the "buddy system" if you will be drinking alcohol. Stick together. Look out for one another. Keep your eye on your beverage. Never accept an open beverage from a stranger... TOO RISKY! Know the signs of an overdose. Seek first aid or call 9-1-1 immediately if help is needed.
- Outdoor venues pose the risk of mosquito and tick exposure. Use insect repellent safely, according to package instructions. Tick removal instructions can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html
- Remember food safety. Keep hot things hot and cold things cold. Avoid bringing perishable food if you can not keep it safely stored at the correct temperature. Ice may be available at the event... check ahead! Remember to wash your hands frequently. Soap and water may not be readily available, so pack disposable antibacterial wipes or biodegradable soap or an alcohol based hand sanitizer for your hands for quick cleanups before cooking or eating and after using the restroom.
Finally, remember that your good time is being held on someone else's property. Be a good person. Clean up after yourself. Dispose of waste responsibly. Separate your trash and recycle properly in designated bins. Keeping the event grounds clean will make it safe for yourself and everyone else. Also, if the event is in a rural area, properly disposing of your waste will reduce the risk of attracting wildlife and for human wild animals.
