The festival season is upon us, bringing with it exciting events, live music, celebrations, and plenty of fun. Whether you're attending a music festival, outdoor gathering, or community event, it’s important to stay safe, keep hydrated, and be prepared for any first aid situations that may arise. At St John Ambulance Victoria, we're committed to making sure you enjoy the festivities while staying safe. Here are some key safety tips for festivalgoers, along with essential first aid advice.

Stay Hydrated and Beat the Heat

Festivals often take place in hot conditions, and Victoria’s summer temperatures can soar, especially during outdoor events. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are serious risks, so it’s crucial to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

First Aid Tips:

• Signs of Heat Exhaustion include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. If someone is feeling these symptoms, move them to a cool, shaded area, provide water, and encourage them to rest.
• Signs of Heat Stroke are more severe, including confusion, loss of consciousness, or dry, hot skin. In this case, call 000 immediately, as heat stroke can be life-threatening.

Tip: Avoid alcohol or sugary drinks as they can increase dehydration. Always keep a bottle of water within easy reach.

How to Treat Heat-Induced Illnesses

Be Mindful of Alcohol Consumption

Festivals often involve alcohol, and while it’s tempting to indulge, it’s important to drink responsibly to avoid injury or accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, motor skills, and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents and fights.

First Aid Tips:

• Signs of Alcohol Poisoning include confusion, slow or irregular breathing, and vomiting. If someone is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to get medical help immediately by calling 000.
• If someone has passed out from alcohol consumption, ensure they are on their side in the recovery position to prevent choking on vomit.

Tip: Pace yourself when drinking, alternate between alcoholic drinks and water, and never leave your drink unattended

Road Safety: Getting to and From Festivals, Christmas Gatherings, and Family Parties

With thousands of people choosing to travel by car during the festive season, roads can become congested and hazardous, particularly at night.

First Aid Tips:

• Road Traffic Incidents are more common during festival season, with drunk driving being a leading cause. Always ensure that you use a designated driver or take public transport.
• Pedestrian Safety: Stay visible, especially at night, and cross the roads only at marked crossings. If you’re walking in groups, make sure everyone stays together and is aware of their surroundings.

Tip: If you're driving, never drink and drive. Always plan ahead for a safe way to get home. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport options.

Protect Your Skin

Spending long hours outside in the sun can lead to sunburn, which can ruin your festival experience and lead to long-term skin damage.

First Aid Tips:

• Sunburn Treatment: If you or someone else is sunburned, apply cool compresses to the affected skin and drink plenty of fluids. 
• Prevention: Apply sunscreen generously and frequently, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade when necessary.

Tip: Even on overcast days, UV rays can cause damage, so make sunscreen your best friend!

Know Where the First Aid Posts Are

At every festival, there should be designated first aid stations or teams on site. These teams are trained to handle a wide range of injuries and health emergencies, so if you or someone else is injured or unwell, seek help immediately.

Tip: Familiarise yourself with the location of first aid posts and emergency exits as soon as you arrive at the festival.

While festivals are a great way to celebrate, it’s important to be aware of the risks and incidents that tend to arise during this season.

Festive Season Incidents on the Rise

Alcohol-related incidents, including assaults and hospital admissions due to alcohol poisoning, tend to increase during the summer festival season. According to recent data from Victoria Police, alcohol-fuelled violence and road incidents see a significant rise around major public holidays and festival weekends.

Heatstroke and dehydration-related admissions to hospitals are also a concern every summer. The Royal Melbourne Hospital has reported an uptick in patients presenting with heat-related illnesses during major outdoor events.

St John Ambulance Victoria responds to over 2,000 events annually, many of which occur during the festival season. This includes providing emergency medical assistance for heat exhaustion, alcohol-related injuries, and minor cuts and bruises from accidents.

Festival season is a time to celebrate, but it’s essential to stay aware of the potential risks and to take steps to ensure you and others stay safe. Whether it’s staying hydrated, drinking responsibly, or knowing how to handle heat-related illness, small preparations can make a big difference. Be sure to keep these tips in mind as you enjoy the events and always be ready to act in an emergency.

If you’re attending a festival this season, St John Ambulance Victoria is always there to provide medical support and ensure your safety. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and enjoy the festivities!