For many people, a big part of the summer is going to a festival – from smaller local festivals to big ones like Glastonbury, getting the chance to have a weekend away, enjoying your favourite music and spending time with friends is a highlight of the year.
However, to make sure that you have a good time and leave with only good memories of the event, then it is wise to be aware of some of the dangers that you might encounter and how to protect yourself…
The Weather – The British summer is known for being unpredictable, and when you are camping at a festival you may be more relaxed and less on your guard than you normally would. When the weather is hot and sunny, this means that you are at risk of heatstroke and sunburn, and when it is wet and chilly, you need to take care walking on slippery ground and also make sure you are warm, especially at night when you are sleeping.
Hearing Damage – Live music at festivals is something that everyone looks forward to and you will be looking forward to hearing your favourite bands. However, music that is louder than 85 decibels can damage your hearing permanently, and it is important that you use hearing protection. If you are concerned about your hearing, go to a professional like this hearing test Cheltenham based clinic www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/cheltenham/ to have it tested.
Pickpocketing – Unfortunately, thefts will happen wherever you go, and you need to be aware of how to prevent it. Making sure that you don’t take anything too valuable with you helps with this worry and also using a money belt to keep anything valuable close to you.
Dressing for festival weather
Staying safe at a festival includes being ready for the weather. Summer in the UK cannot be relied on, and if you are camping on wet grass you are likely to see your share of rain, mud and wind. Pack a coat whatever the forecast says, as it will make cold nights and sudden downpours far easier to cope with.
Festivals are muddy places. Thousands of people walking the same ground churn up the dirt, and once the rain arrives it turns to mud. A good pair of boots or wellies keeps your feet dry and lets you enjoy the music without soaked socks, and it gives you sturdier footing on slippery ground.
Think twice about shorts. There is no telling how cold it will get, so a decent pair of jeans is a more practical choice. If you do want to wear shorts or a skirt, carry a pair of tights to slip on when the temperature drops or the rain sets in.