People sometimes do things at big events that they wouldn’t normally do. This can increase the change of heat related problems. For example people may:
- Not want to use toilets and so deliberately avoid drinking.
- Get a good spot to see the event and stop drinking and stay in the sun so as not to lose their spot.
Organisers can:-
- Consider moving date, location or cancel event in extreme heat alert.
- Arrange strenuous activities for cooler days or cooler periods of the day and provide a less strenuous program for hot days.
- Provide advice at local hotels, money exchanges and transport hubs.
- Provide shaded areas (umbrellas, tents).
- Reduce queuing (efficient check in, additional staffing, or staggered ticket entry).
- Provide maps of air-conditioned spaces where people can get out of the heat.
- Inform your audience of the dangers and preventive measures.
- Distribute heat-health advice on free fans or caps; include prevention of health problems, symptoms and emergency contact numbers.
- Distribute water bottles and make free drinking water available.
- Remember that people with asthma, heart disease and other chronic conditions are more sensitive to heat.
- Remember that alcohol and some (prescription) drugs can worsen effects of heat.
- Make sure people who are unwell can be looked after and provide transport to first aid/health unit.
- Make sure water-rich foods such as salads and yogurt are available and kept cool to prevent contamination.