This year will be my third summer in a row that I attended Vans Warped Tour, and throughout those three years, I feel like I've acquired some knowledge that may be beneficial to you if you are considering attending a Warped date. Outdoor music festivals such as these are amazing, but it's important to think realistically in order to make the most out of your experience-and above all-safety comes first. Note that these tips aren't strictly geared toward Warped Tour attendees, and may also be applied to many other outdoor music festivals. The following tips are more common sense than anything, but you'd be surprised how many people are misinformed and pay the price later on. Without further ado, here are 3 vital tips for ensuring your safety at Warped Tour this summer.
1. Dress for the weather
I cannot stress this enough. I understand that the majority of Warped Tour attendees are into alternative/punk-rock fashion, but people need to be smart about what they choose to wear. The outfit above is an example of an ideal outfit. Always opt for light-weight clothing, and try to avoid darker colors because they attract the sun. That being said, black band t-shirts are NOT advisable. Wear a black tank top instead, or simply wear a bikini top paired with shorts. Black skinny jeans are a major no-no because in addition to attracting the sun, they're also difficult to jump around in. An outfit similar to the one shown above is your best bet.
If you're uncomfortable with showing a lot of skin, wear a light-weight jacket or a longer pair of shorts. The majority of people at Warped are generally really accepting of one another, and tend not to care about physical appearance. We're like one big family. Don't stress about it too much. There are tons of ways to stay cool in the heat while maintaining your unique style. Your safety should be your main priority here, and wearing the wrong clothing could cost you your health. For more outfit inspiration, check Pinterest or Tumblr.
2. Know The Warning Signs of Heat Stroke.
If you start feeling like you might faint, tell someone immediately and have them escort you to the First Aid tent. Do NOT try to walk there by yourself, because it could potentially make you feel even worse and cause you to faint. There have been several incidents of people dying at Warped Tour due to heat stroke, and it's important to be aware. According to WebMD, the main symptoms of heat stroke include throbbing headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion and seeing yellow spots in front of one's eyes. As soon as you begin to have two or more of those symptoms, get help ASAP. Don't wait thinking it might it probably will go away on its own. Act quickly. Better to be safe than sorry. I almost fainted last summer and ended up leaving the venue early, because I probably would have passed out if I stayed. Make sure you take the proper precautions.
Hydration is key when you're out in the sun all day. In order to decrease the likelihood of getting heat stroke, drink as much water as possible and avoid sugary drinks such as soda or energy drinks. This step is absolutely mandatory. Also, watch out for others and if you see someone who appears to have these symptoms, get them help.
3. Know The Safe Areas in a Crowd.
This mostly applies to individuals who are planning on seeing heavier bands. Mosh pits usually develop in the center of a crowd, so if you don't intend on moshing, stay as far away from the middle as possible. The safest place in a crowd is generally the back, sides, or in the very front by the barricades. A pit could form anywhere, but you have less of a chance of getting sucked into one if you avoid the center. If you stand in the center of a crowd, you could potentially be caught in the middle of one as it develops, and if you're not prepared, it could be quite a disastrous situation.
Also, know which genres the bands are so you're prepared. When in doubt, ask around and find out how heavy the band is. If you find yourself caught in the middle of a pit unexpectedly, get out as quickly as possible or ask someone to get you out. Mosh pits form rather quickly, but they're also fairly easy to get out if you act fast. Just be aware of your surroundings and you'll be fine.
Be safe, and most importantly, have fun this Warped Tour season!
