In a few hours, Jamaica is set to witness one of the largest musical events of the summer. The “Under the Influence” concert featuring international recording artist Chris Brown is set to go live at the National Stadium with an estimated crowd pull of nearly 30,000 patrons.

Large public events, such as this, are exhilarating experiences that bring people together to enjoy music and create lasting memories. However, these events also present certain health and safety challenges, especially considering the potential for overcrowding and exposure to various risks. Ensuring medical safety at such events is paramount to ensuring a positive experience for all attendees.

Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) is a key sponsor of this event and the emergency medical service team of (HIC) has been engaged to provide emergency medical coverage for this event. The HIC EMS team will comprise 42 medical personnel including emergency medicine trained physicians, critical care personnel, nurses, technologists, EMTs and other paramedical and allied health workers to staff six emergency medical stations at the venue ensuring that patrons have easy and ready access to medical personnel for any urgent or emergency medical needs.

We are also supporting the team with two advanced medical ambulances fully equipped with all resuscitative equipment and materials to stabilise individuals prior to transfer to receiving hospitals. Our HIC Heart Hospital will also be on high alert for acute heart-related conditions that may arise during the event. In today’s column, we explore essential strategies and precautions to keep medically safe at this event and other public events.

1) Pre-event preparation

Before attending a large public event such as this, it’s crucial to engage in some pre-event preparation to set the stage for a safe experience. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the venue, including entrances, exits, medical aid stations, and restrooms. This knowledge can prove invaluable in case of emergencies. Outdoor events are often susceptible to weather changes. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before attending and dress appropriately to stay comfortable and avoid exposure to risk of heatstroke or hypothermia.

2) Stay well-hydrated and have a meal before the event.

Dehydration and low blood sugar can lead to dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and other health problems.

3) Personal health precautions

Taking care of your personal health is essential to staying safe at a large public event. If you have a pre-existing medical condition or chronic illness, it would be helpful to carry a small card with your essential medical information including emergency contacts and listing of your chronic conditions. Such information could prove invaluable in case of an emergency and will be useful to the medical personnel if you require assistance. If you’re on medication, make sure to have an adequate supply with you. Consider setting reminders to take them on time. For individuals with allergies, it would pay to be cautious about potential allergens present at the event, such as food, pollen, perfumes, or certain fabrics.

4) Hygiene and sanitation

Maintaining good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of illnesses. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser and use it regularly, especially after touching surfaces like handrails and restroom facilities. This will reduce your risk of exposure to infectious agents, especially viruses. Respiratory etiquette should always be employed. If you’re coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or cough in your elbow to prevent the spread of germs to others.

5) Responsible use of alcohol

If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation and avoid unpredictable combinations. Excessive drinking can impair judgement and increase the risk of accidents and injury. Avoid the use of illegal substances, as they can have unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects on your health.

6) Crowd safety

Navigating through large crowds requires some specific safety considerations. While enjoying the event, be mindful of personal space. Proximity to others might increase the risk of transmitting or contracting illnesses. We are learning to live with COVID but be mindful that the epidemic has not disappeared even though we have learned to coexist with it. Large crowds increase risk of transmission and so adequate precaution would be in order. Pay close attention to the flow of the crowd. Sudden surges or changes in direction can lead to accidents and injuries.

7) Locate HIC emergency medical stations

As previously noted, there will be six HIC emergency medical stations on site. It would pay to familiarise yourself with their locations upon arrival. Make a mental note of where the medical stations are located. These stations are staffed with medical personnel and equipped to handle injuries and acute health issues. If you feel unwell or witness someone in distress, don’t hesitate to approach event staff or security personnel for assistance.

8) Know emergency exits

Be aware of the nearest emergency exits should you need to evacuate quickly. If there is an urgent need for evacuation, do not panic. Follow instructions from security personnel and organisers and evacuate purposefully to avoid stampede and unnecessary injury. In conclusion, attending large public events like musical concerts can be both thrilling and safe with the right precautions. From pre-event preparation to responsible behaviour during the event, taking these steps can significantly reduce health risks and contribute to a positive experience for everyone involved. Remember, personal safety is a shared responsibility, and by looking out for one another, we can create an environment where everyone can enjoy the event to the fullest while staying medically secure. HIC emergency medical team remains poised to respond quickly in the event of an emergency and committed to ensuring the safety of event attendees.

Dr Ernest Madu, MD, FACC and Dr Paul Edwards, MD, FACC are consultant cardiologists for the Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) and HIC Heart Hospital. HIC is the regional centre of excellence for cardiovascular care in the English-speaking Caribbean and has pioneered a transformation in the way cardiovascular care is delivered in the region. HIC Heart Hospital is registered by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and is the only heart hospital in Jamaica. Send correspondence to info@caribbeanheart.com or call 876-906-2107.