The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) would like to remind Hoosiers planning on attending big events this summer to think about safety.
A press release from IDHS says:
Races, concerts, conventions, festivals, air shows and more — Hoosiers will host many tremendous events this summer that draw people from far and wide to celebrate and enjoy life in Indiana.
To make these gatherings successful, organizers take great pains to plan out all the details. Some of the most important plans surround public safety, which may include vehicle access and flow, safety signage and emergency medical and security staff.
Despite event planners’ best efforts, some level of risk will always remain. Threats like hazardous weather, crowd surges and spontaneous conflicts require everyone not only to take responsibility for their own safety but also to look out for other eventgoers to avoid tragedy.
Sharing is caring
Before you head to an event, make sure you tell someone you trust where you are going and who will be with you. This outside contact can provide information or assistance to you and your group if an incident occurs. Also, if you plan to attend an event with children, share the importance of them staying close to your group and avoiding strangers.
Make mental notes
Upon arrival at an event, take notice of entrances and exits and how to get to them, where security and emergency medical personnel are located and what the event rules are. You may need to evacuate or escape during an emergency, and knowing what the rules are can help you identify an item or behavior that is potentially dangerous.
See something, say something
During an event, trust your instincts if you sense something may be wrong or you observe suspicious activity. Immediately report your concerns to security personnel or police officers on site (or call 911).
Signs of suspicious activity include people who seem out of place or are wearing improper attire for the weather or location, loitering, entering restricted areas when not authorized and abruptly changing behavior when seen.
The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency advises you to keep in mind the acronym “HOT” if you notice a suspicious backpack, box or other item:
- H: Does it seem to be intentionally Hidden?
- O: Are there Obvious issues like unexplainable wires, electronics or bomb-like parts?
- T: Is the item not Typical, meaning it is out of place for the location or could be related to a threat?
If the answers are yes, avoid the item, direct others away from it and notify authorities. If the answers are no, remain cautious but try to determine whose item it is and report it to an authority.
Learn more tips at the Get Prepared Event Safety page.
