Expert’s tips to stay safe at Creamfields music festival this weekend

One of the biggest events on the UK music festival calendar, 70,000 revellers are set to descend on Daresbury for this year’s four-day event, from Thursday to Sunday.

While the festival is primarily about enjoyment, like many other big music events, it also comes with unique safety concerns.

To help, Mark Balaam, CEO and founder of imabi Guardian, a free, all-in-one app for safeguarding and wellness, designed primarily to help reduce incidents of violence against women and girls, has shared some crucial tips to help you navigate Creamfields safely.

The White Ribbon ambassador, who has more than 30 years of experience working with national security and intelligence agencies, is also a father of two young festival-going daughters.

Prepare in advance

Creamfields, above all, is meant to be fun and enjoyable. A little preparation can ensure you stay safe and fully enjoy the festival experience.

Good preparation is vital. Before attending the festival, gather all relevant information about the event.

Study the festival map, noting exits, medical stations, and security points.

Additionally, establish a meeting spot with your friends in case you get separated, a common occurrence in large crowds.

Secure your belongings

Theft can be a problem at festivals, so keep your valuables secure. Bring only what you need and use a money belt or a bag with a zipper to keep your items close.

Mark Balaam, White Ribbon ambassador and CEO and founder of imabi

Leave expensive jewellery and high-tech gadgets at home as they can attract thieves. Consider using the festival’s lockers to safely store your belongings until you need them.

Stay hydrated and weather prepared

With summer comes the risk of dehydration, so drink plenty of water and make use of refill stations with reusable bottles.

Remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Also, be prepared for rain by packing waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear.

Be conscious of surroundings

Big festivals like Creamfields are thrilling, but the large crowds can contain dangers. Stay alert to your surroundings and trust your gut feelings.

If something seems off, do not ignore it. Stick to well-lit, crowded areas and avoid going off alone, especially after dark.

If you feel unsafe or uneasy, seek assistance from the festival staff or security.

Care for others

Look out not just for your friends but also for other festivalgoers.

Festivals often create a community vibe, so if you see someone looking unwell or distressed, offer help or inform festival staff.

Creamfields music festival will be held in Daresbury this weekend

Creamfields is synonymous with partying, which can sometimes lead to excessive drinking or drug use, so keep an eye out for anyone in trouble.

Stick to your limits

Excessive alcohol or drug use can impair your judgement. Avoid drugs altogether.

Stay in control to avoid accidents or becoming vulnerable, and do not forget to eat and stay hydrated.

Use technology

Alongside traditional safety measures, consider using safeguarding apps like imabi Community and imabi Guardian.

These apps let you share your location with trusted contacts, helping you keep track of each other.

They also offer guidance, advice, and a reporting feature to raise concerns or seek help if necessary.

Help and support

In emergencies, knowing where to go for help is essential. Creamfields will have medical tents and security stations staffed with trained personnel.

Locate these areas when you arrive, so you know where to find assistance if needed.

The festival will also have a welfare tent providing support for mental health and substance issues, so do not hesitate to seek help if needed.