Whether you’re attending an outdoor music festival like Boston Calling or a huge arena tour, concerts are an exciting way to enjoy your favorite artists, hang out with friends, and bask in the glory of summer. However, concertgoers must stay mindful of their health and safety with the high energy, large crowds, and summer heat. Continue reading for seven tips to ensure your summer concert experience is fun, safe, and memorable.
- Stay hydrated
Summer heat can lead to dehydration, especially when you are dancing in the sun or standing in long bathroom lines. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit your alcohol consumption. Some outdoor concerts allow you to bring an empty water bottle to fill at water stations. Free water means more money to spend on tour merch.
- Protect your skin
A day spent under the summer sun can lead to sunburns if you’re not careful. Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or above sunscreen before heading out and reapply throughout the day. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often missed spots like your ears, hands, and scalp. Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips. If you are planning to be outdoors for extended periods, wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing for added coverage. Check out more summer tips to shield yourself from sunburn.
- Dress comfortably
Comfort is key when you’re planning to be in the heat and on your feet for hours. Wear breathable, light clothing, and choose comfortable and supportive shoes. Avoid sandals, clogs, and heels as they can become a tripping hazard. If the event is outdoors, check the weather forecast ahead of time and pack a light jacket or poncho if needed.
- Know the venue and its emergency protocols
Before heading out to the concert, familiarize yourself with the venue’s layout, including emergency exits, first aid tents, water stations, and where to find help if needed. Most venues will have staff and security available to guide you in case of an emergency. If your event has a smartphone app, download it as it can contain useful resources like a map of the venue. Some apps can even send push notifications to attendees during inclement weather or an emergency.
If you have sensory sensitivity, some venues offer accessibility accommodations, such as early entry, sensory-friendly spaces, or strobe warnings.
- Plan what to bring and keep your belongings safe
You are in line to enter the concert, and you forgot about the sandwich at the bottom of your backpack – no outside food allowed, and now you’re going to concert jail. Avoid this by checking the list of items that are permitted and the event’s bag policies, typically posted on the concert website. Choose a small bag or fanny pack, and don’t leave your valuables unattended. Be mindful of your phone and wallet, and if you don’t want to worry about your bag all day, consider renting a locker.
- Be mindful of crowds
Large crowds can be overwhelming, whether it's a packed concert hall or a massive outdoor festival. Always be aware of your surroundings, and if you feel unsafe, move to an area where you can relax or get the attention of a staff member. If you find yourself in a mosh pit and someone falls, it is concert etiquette to help them up. In the event of an evacuation or emergency, follow staff instructions and exit the venue calmly.
- Protect your hearing
Are your ears ringing after a concert? This could be a sign that your hearing has been damaged. According to Mass Eye and Ear, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable but not reversible. To protect your hearing, consider wearing earplugs. They reduce noise without dampening the music quality, allowing you to enjoy the concert without risking hearing damage. If you forgot your earplugs, guest services occasionally have extra pairs. Extended exposure to loud sounds can cause permanent hearing loss, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
Congratulations: You’re concert-ready!
Concerts are a fantastic way to celebrate the summer, enjoy live music, and create lasting memories. By following these health and safety tips, you can focus on enjoying the music and having a wonderful time with friends.
If you’re heading to Boston Calling, check out their Health, Safety & Security page.
Looking for more summer suggestions? Explore our list of essential summer safety tips!
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