As summer approaches and festival fans look out their wellies and ponchos, Police Scotland is reminding music lovers to keep safe while having fun.
Events are taking place across the country in the coming months and Police Scotland want those attending to take on board some safety messages and plan ahead for their festival weekend.
Detective Inspector Michael Miller, National Drug Co-ordinator from Police Scotland’s Safer Communities team, said:
“Tens of thousands of people will attend music festivals across the country in the coming weeks. We want people to have a fantastic time and remember the event for all the right reasons, our focus is on keeping them safe when they get there.
“Enjoy your festival experience by keeping yourself and your friends safe. Remember there is no ‘safe’ way to take drugs – there is always a risk. The only way of staying safe is to avoid drugs altogether.
“Don’t ruin your festival experience by being found in possession of drugs. You will be arrested and prosecuted.
“There’s plenty of advice available to help people make the most of their festival experience. Read up, be prepared and help ensure Scotland’s festivals are safe and fun for all involved.”‘
Keep Safe’ messages from Police Scotland include:
- Know your limits with alcohol, your judgement can be impaired and make you a target.• Protect your valuables: guard against pickpockets; stay alert when using cash machines; only take items you will need; use a service to track and find your mobile phone in case you lose it.
- Anti-social behaviour: do not bring or carry weapons; do not carry smoke canisters, flares or any other form of pyrotechnic; respect local communities and residents.
- Personal safety: stay with friends and stay in busy areas.
- Travel safety: plan in advance; leave enough time for your journey; remember the new lower drink driving limit if you are driving home in the morning.
- At the festival: collect your ticket or wristband from official sources only, not ticket touts and ensure you have it with you at all times. Always follow the directions of police and stewards; know where your pick up and drop off points are; if you are camping know which zone your tent is in.
- Remember how to contact the police: In an emergency dial 999; dial 101 for non-emergency matters; if you want to report crime anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
