Before heading out to your favorite summer event, concert or recreational activity, it's always smart to think ahead and be prepared before you leave home.
Recruitment & Communications Specialist with Brandon Police Service, Janet Reichert, encourages folks to complete a mental checklist of things to do before heading out to a festival, rodeo or concert, a place where there are large crowds... or to those places more remote where you're apt to be by yourself.
"You want to charge your phone, pack your sunscreen, stay hydrated," shares Reichert. "And in terms of your valuables, make sure they're out of sight or even leave them at home. And of course, don't forget your ID and an event ticket, right? You don't want to be that person at the gate!"
Further safety measures include letting someone know where you're going, who you're going with and meeting up with.
"Setting up a meeting spot in case you get separated from your group is a good idea, and if alcoholic beverages are being consumed, pace yourself and be sure you've preplanned for a designated driver (DD). Have a sober driver and a safe ride home like a taxi, just to keep everybody safe on the roads and make sure you get home safely."
Venturing out in the summertime, many like to go hiking, kayaking or canoeing and fishing and then there are the cycling enthusiasts and motorcycle riders. These recreational outings are often done solo. So, it's very important to let people know where you're going. We really need that buddy system for folks to check in on us if we're not getting back to them in a reasonable amount of time.
Accidents do happen.
Technology is on our side to help keep us safe, says Reichert.
"It's a nice thing that technology is on our side nowadays. I know as a mom, I do use the Life 360 app and it's a great way for me and my son to stay connected. You can see where they are, how fast they're traveling, and it even has an impact warning. So should someone tragically be in an accident, God forbid, you actually get a warning of those in your circle, and you can take action from there and then you're able to see their last location," she explains.
"There are tons of apps, tons of different programs out there on that side of things. But yeah, by all means, let your people know where you are, what you're doing, and do it safely. If you're on bikes or quads and things like that, wear a helmet and take that extra measure because accidents do happen."
It's important to remember that our police force is pulling over too many drivers who are over the alcohol or drug consumption limit and are unsafe on the road. You might be doing your due diligence to be a safe driver, but the vehicle coming towards you may not be driven by a person in a safe frame of mind, whether that be under the influence, is over-tired or distracted. And don't let road-rage get the best of you if you're following a Sunday driver. If you see an erratic driver on the road, call 911. Safety must be #1 for everyone at all times!
Always be aware of what's going on around you, on the road with your vehicle, or in the woods with your ATV.
A little awareness definitely means a lot more fun. Safety is #1
When at the actual event, Reichert reminds participants of a few safety precautions that should become a habit right from the get-go.
"Here in Manitoba, we've got tons of great events! You know, Dauphin Country Fest, Minnedosa is going to host their big event here coming up in a few weeks," she says. "Upon arrival, spot out the security and the first aid stations, should you need them, then you know where they are."
"Again, with your friends, if you're in a group, agree on a on a muster point in case you get separated or your phones die. You know, of course, we rely on our phones but should someone's phone dies, or gets lost or stolen, then you know where you are to meet that person. Just stay aware of your surroundings, look out for each other. Of course, you know, keep your phone and valuables secure or [keep your valuables] at home."
"And we definitely always advise people, please report any suspicious behavior or individuals, at these events," adds Reichert. "Report them to security or to law enforcement. And in a nutshell, just trust your gut and stick with your friends. A little awareness definitely means a lot more fun. So yeah, safety is #1, right?"