Health Nuggets

Crowd Safety Tips

Whether you're attending a concert, festival, sporting event, parade, or community celebration, taking a few precautions can help you stay safe in large crowds.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Identify exits, emergency routes, and landmarks as soon as you arrive.
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after using the bathroom and eating.
• Stay with your group.  Choose a meeting place in case you become separated and make sure everyone knows how to reconnect.
• Keep your phone charged.  Carry a portable charger if you'll be away from home for an extended period.
• Avoid overcrowded areas.  If you feel uncomfortable or notice pushing and shoving, move to the edge of the crowd or a less congested area.
• Follow instructions from event staff and emergency personnel.  They are trained to manage crowd movement and respond to emergencies.
• Stay hydrated and dress for the weather.  Heat, cold, and dehydration can increase the risk of illness in crowded settings.  Know the signs of heat-related illness.
• Keep personal belongings secure.  Carry only what you need and keep valuables in zipped pockets or bags.
• Be mindful of trip hazards.  Uneven surfaces, cords, bags, and discarded items can increase the risk of falls.
• Trust your instincts.  If a situation feels unsafe, leave the area calmly and seek a safer location.

In an emergency:

• Stay as calm as possible and avoid sudden movements that could increase panic.
• Move with the flow of the crowd rather than against it until you can safely exit.
• If you fall, curl onto your side, protect your head and chest, and get up as soon as it is safe.
• Once clear of danger, check on those around you and call emergency services if someone needs assistance.

Keep a diligent eye on your children:

• It’s very easy to get separated in a crowd.
• Dress your group alike or in bright-colored, unique clothing.  Do not dress your child in clothing with their name on it.  If someone calls out their name, they may go toward that person and become confused about how to get back to you.
• Before leaving the house, take a photo of your child.  If you become separated, you will have an up-to-date photo and record of what they are wearing to give to officials.
• Remind younger children to avoid strangers and help them identify police officers or officials to go to if they become lost.
• Place your phone number in your child's pocket in case you're separated.
• If you find yourself in a crowd crush with your child, try to put them on your shoulders so they are above the crowd and can breathe.

Planning ahead, staying alert, and knowing your exits can significantly reduce the risk of injury and help make any large gathering safer and more enjoyable.                                      (State Farm-Crowd Safety tips July 2026)

Submitted by: North Country Community Health Services and Beltrami County Community Health Services- www.ncchb.org or www.co.beltrami.mn.us/services/public-health/ or find us on Facebook-North Country Community Health Services

(Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard and Lake of the Woods Public Health)

Stephanie Anderson

Clearwater County Public Health

212 Main Avenue North

Bagley, MN 56621

(218) 694-6581