Summer has finally arrived in Scotland and with the warm weather (we hope!), comes Scotland’s annual music festival experience. 

There’s a host of great festivals to choose from over the months of July, August and September and we want to ensure you have a great experience and stay safe whilst enjoying your favourite bands.

What are Police Scotland's top festival safety tips?

Theft, Fraud and Lost Property 

• Protect your valuables - record details of your mobile phone, camera and tablet on the National Mobile Property Register, immobilise.com, before you set off 
• Only take what you need and don’t leave valuables or anything with your identity on it unattended.
• Don’t leave valuables on display in your car – leave the glove box empty and open 
• Beware of pickpockets – don’t flash your valuables and only carry what cash you need
• Stay alert at cash machines

Antisocial Behaviour 

• Carrying weapons in any public place, including festivals is an offence, if found in possession of offensive weapons you will be arrested
• Don’t bring smoke canisters, pellets, flares or other pyrotechnics 
• Be responsible and party safe 
• Respect local residents and other festival goers 
• Don’t place yourself or anybody else in danger when you’re having fun

Consumption of Illicit Substances 

• Don’t take drugs – there is no ‘safe’ way to take them
• It is an offence to be in possession of an illegal substance, and will result in arrest and charges. 
• You can never be sure what’s in any illicit drug or how it will affect you
• Taking any drug is dangerous, the risk is heightened when you mix with alcohol or other substances
• If you or another have taken a substance and feel unwell urgently seek medical assistance
• Know your alcohol limits, alcohol will make you more vulnerable to theft, assault and sexual assaults. Drink plenty water and stay with friends, never leave a drink unattended and don’t mix alcohol with illegal substances

Personal Safety 

• Stay with friends, let them know where you are at all times, arrange meeting points and keep your phones fully charged 
• Make sure you and your friends have return journey’s planned 
• Stay alert – people under the influence are easy targets for criminals 
• Don’t engage in any sexual activity with anyone who does not / or is unable to give their consent due to being under the influence of drink or drugs. In Scots Law this is rape. 
• Stick to busy areas of the arena and campsite – don’t be drawn to secluded spots 
• Don’t let people into your tent you don’t know

Travel Safety 

• Plan your travel arrangements in advance of the event 
• Traffic will be heavy – leave enough time to get there. 
• Make sure you’ve have all your belongings before you leave 
• Don’t get into a car and travel home with people you’ve just met and don’t know 
• If you’re driving home, make sure you’re not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, stick to water the night before and remember the reduced drink drive limit.

Police Reporting 

• In an emergency dial 999. For non-emergencies dial 101.
• Do you have information about crime or criminals? Contact Crimestoppers and report it anonymously on 0800 555 111 
• Are you a young person with information about crime? Report it to Crimestoppers anonymously and in confidence at Fearless.org 
• Find out more about substance misuse and where to get help at Know The Score
• Are you between 11 and 18? Get the facts about substance misuse at Choices For Life

Logistics

• Make sure you have your genuine ticket / wristbands before you arrive. Only purchase from genuine vendors and avoid touts 
• Follow directions of police, event security and stewards. Contact them if you need help. 
• Bring a map of the site and keep it on you while you’re there 
• Know where your pick up and drop off points are 
• Make sure you know the zone your tent is in Safety within Crowded Places 
• Be alert, not alarmed 
• Be vigilant and report suspicious people or behaviour