Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is urging festival-goers to be aware of some important safety advice before attending Reading Festival this bank holiday weekend.
David Grayson, Watch Based Station Manager, said, “While we want you to have a great time and enjoy the festival this weekend, we also want to remind you of some vital safety advice that could make all the difference to your festival experience.”
“Remember, a fire can destroy a tent in under 60 seconds, so please take note of these precautions if you’re camping this weekend: cook a safe distance from your tent, do not smoke in your tent, and do not use candles in your tent.”
Tips to consider
Stay away from open water under the influence of alcohol, and do not be tempted to cook"
“We understand that you might want to enjoy a drink at the festival too, but please act responsibly. Stay away from open water under the influence of alcohol, and do not be tempted to cook or handle naked flames. Alcohol slows your ability to react and respond in an emergency.”
If a person is attending the Reading Festival, here are some steps to take to ensure that people can have fun and stay safe at the same time:
Candles, Cooking, and Cigarettes
- Do not use candles in or near a tent – use a torch instead.
- Do not smoke inside a tent.
- Cook outside, a safe distance away from the tent or any other flammable materials.
Wildfires
- Do not leave glass bottles lying around the camping area – sunlight shining through glass can start a fire.
- If a person smokes, please ensure that the cigarette is fully extinguished and do not throw cigarette ends on the ground. A lit cigarette could spark a fire when it comes into contact with grass.
BBQs
- Set up the BBQ on level ground, and do not leave it unattended.
- Use only approved lighter fluids and only ever on cold coals.
- Never take a BBQ into a tent. Even when their flames are not visible, BBQs produce large amounts of deadly carbon monoxide fumes.
Alcohol
- Do not be tempted to cook or handle naked flames if you are under the influence of alcohol.
- Stay away from the waterside to avoid falling in. Alcohol makes swimming very difficult.
Be Prepared
- Have an escape plan, and be prepared to cut the way out of the tent if there is a fire.
- Pay particular attention to the fire safety guidance provided by the festival organizer. If in any doubt, ask the on-site staff.
Safety in water
As Reading Festival is close to the River Thames, RBFRS also encourages festival-goers to familiarize themselves with the float to live advice. If a person finds themself in trouble in the water, try not to panic and thrash about.
Lean back and extend out the arms and legs to float. Float until the person can control the breathing and swim to safety or call for help. If a person finds someone else in trouble in the water, never enter the water to try to rescue them themself. Call 999 immediately and ask for the fire and rescue service.
