With summer in full swing, Island Health has some tips for you to have fun and stay safe when attending festivals.
According to the health authority, going to events and festivals offers some health benefits for people like improved mood, exercise, and an increased sense of community. But despite the positives, being outside for a long period of time and being close together with large amounts of people can bring health risks.
These include shock from dehydration, overheating, hearing loss when listening to live music, meningitis, staph infections, and sexually transmitted infections.
To prevent these issues, Island Health has tips to keep you safe.
While standing outside, you should stay in the shade, use sunscreen, and regularly drink water. While attending a music festival, don’t stand too close to speakers and wear ear protection.
You are also encouraged to get immunized, get tested regularly if you are sexually active, and if you want to try alcohol, drink slowly and eat before doing so.
For illicit drugs, they add you should use with someone or have someone check up on you, never leave your friend alone to sleep it off, and to take it slow.
