1. Take responsibility for you and your family
This first point may seem a little obvious – ‘of course I’m going to take responsibility for my family’. However, what I’m getting at is don’t wait for the cavalry to arrive. Don’t think that the police or venue staff or emergency services will come and sort everything out and save the day.
In extreme circumstances, it is every man (or woman) for themselves. Get yourself and your family to safety as quickly as you can – take action and responsibility.
2. Make a plan
If you can, pre-plan your exit from the venue or location so that you know where to go if necessary:
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Look where the emergency exits are
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Agree a meeting point with your group should you get separated
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Where are places of safety nearby
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Is your car parked somewhere safe and near the exit
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Have you got a small bag with emergency items in? I’d suggest having a first aid kit, any medication you may need (such as an Epipen), some cash, a bottle of water, a fully charged phone etc. Ensure you have supplies so that you can be self sufficient and look after your family.
Keeping Children Safe in Crowds
Before leaving for your event take a photo of your children in the clothes they are wearing out. This way, if the worst should happen and you lose them, you will have a photo to show officials and they will know exactly what they are wearing. This could be shared on social media if necessary. Also, remind children what to do if they get lost and give them a piece of paper with your mobile phone number on it. Make sure they know what number to dial for emergency services and what they will be asked if they do have to call 999.
3. Be aware
Always have a 360 degree awareness of what is going on around you and pay attention to the atmospherics – especially in crowded places.
I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to trust your gut instinct, because you can and will pick up on changes in the dynamic of the crowd or if something suspicious is happening.
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