How to Stay Safe at Summer Events and Festivals

As temperatures rise, so do the number of opportunities to gather at outdoor events, including everything from local fairs to large music festivals. After being cooped up indoors during the cold winter months and dealing with rescheduled plans due to the chaotic nature of springtime weather patterns, everyone is yearning to get outside and soak up the sun.

Summer Event Safety Starts Before You Arrive

That said, being surrounded by large crowds can present challenges that aren’t always obvious. Summer event safety tips are easy to overlook when you’re focused on music, food, friends and family. While most events go off without a hitch, many variables can unexpectedly change the course of the day.

For those responsibly armed, attending such events should include some forethought to be prepared and remain situationally aware, all while not standing out and making yourself an unnecessary target. Whether you’re attending a county fair, outdoor concert, parade or large festival, a little planning ahead of time can help you enjoy the day.

Know Before You Go: Planning Ahead

Once you know the location of the event, the first, and perhaps simplest, step is to examine the venue’s layout. This doesn’t need to involve going there in person, as you can most likely pull up images and seating maps online. Examine the layout of the seats and exits, where you plan to park (if driving), and potential choke points in the event of attendees stampeding towards the exits.

Think about the type of event you are attending and the type of crowd usually in attendance. The overall number of people present may also affect how you handle a potentially dangerous situation.

While not 100% foolproof, security measures taken by event staff may help mitigate some threats, but not all. Come to an agreement with those you’ll be going with on where you will all meet in the case of an emergency. Ensure all phones are charged and that you have contact numbers for those you’ll be with.

For those licensed to carry, you’ll want to be sure to check local laws and venue policies regarding firearms. Private property and areas with posted restrictions may also impose additional regulations that must be followed.

Situational Awareness in Crowds: Your First Line of Defense

Situational awareness is a very effective way for you to take an active role in your personal safety. By staying present and “tuned in” to your surroundings, you’ll be able to see signs of danger stirring about before the situation becomes an active threat.

Upon arrival, take a mental note of entrances and exits. Not all events will have them, but it may also be useful to know the location of medical tents and any security checkpoints.

While enjoying the event, assess the behavior of those in your immediate vicinity and the event as a whole. Anyone who appears angry, erratic or under the influence of drugs or alcohol could pose a potential risk. Identifying potential risks early on allows you to distance yourself from them.

While tempting, avoid having your eyes glued to your cellphone. Taking pictures is ok but limit how much time you spend sharing on social media or with friends back home. If your phone has your full attention, you are incapable of remaining situationally aware of your surroundings.

Lastly, think about your overall positioning at the event. By maintaining a clear path to an exit, you’ll prevent yourself from getting trapped in a spot, unable to escape.

Concealed Carry Considerations at Summer Festivals

If you can bring along your CCW to an event, there are a few key things to keep in mind. The clothes you’re wearing should fully conceal your handgun, while remaining accessible. Double-check this before leaving home, and ensure it remains covered while walking, running, climbing and when raising your arms.

Your holster should provide sufficient retention to keep your gun secure, especially if you bump into others while navigating a crowd.

If you’re unable to bring your firearm, educate yourself on what methods of personal safety you’re able to bring, such as pepper spray or a Taser.

De-Escalation and Avoidance in Event Crowds: The Smart Approach

There’s no reason to get into an altercation, so whenever possible, take steps to avoid conflict. When at all possible, remain with your group as you’ll naturally have safety in numbers. If going to the restroom or grabbing a drink, bring a friend along. Verbal de-escalation techniques, such as speaking calmly or using non-threatening body language, are your first line of defense.

Here are a few examples of non-verbal cues that may diffuse a situation, and which signal to the angered individual that you’re a threat.

DO	DON’T
Speak in a calm tone.	Yell and shout
Relaxed posture	Cross your arms
Approach from the side	Approach head-on
Steady, gentle eye contact	Aggressively stare
Remain at a respectful distance	Invade their personal space
Slow and deliberate movements	Sudden movements
Keep hands visible	Clench your fists, put your hands in your pockets/behind your back

What to Do in an Emergency at a Public Event

The type of emergency that occurs will dictate how the situation is handled. If possible, locate multiple exit points throughout the venue. If unable to exit, remove yourself from immediate danger, seek cover and wait for further instructions from the authorities.

If separated from your group, once you’ve reached safety, contact them to let them know you’re ok and see if they need assistance. Lastly, having basic first-aid knowledge and knowing how to perform CPR can be quite helpful. Many local firehouses, hospitals and other locations throughout the community often offer free courses in these and many other helpful areas revolving around safety.

Summer Safety Tips

At the end of the day, it all boils down to taking responsibility for being prepared, regardless of the event, time of year or how many other people may be involved. Going into a situation fully prepared gives you confidence that you can handle whatever arises, allowing you to truly relax and enjoy the moment.