By Sarah Turnnidge & PA Media, BBC News, West of England
PAWith just days to go until gates open, thousands of people across the country are preparing to head to one of the biggest festivals in the world.
But among the sparkly outfits and sleeping bags, there are a few essentials Glastonbury Festival-goers should bear in mind to stay well during their stay on the farm.
While tens of thousands of people descend on Worthy Farm each year without incident, the experience is not without its hazards.
So here is a quick rundown of some simple things you can do to prevent some of the pain of a five-day party.
Dehydration
As Brits, there are few pleasures in life that top basking in the sunshine with a cold beer at a festival, but doctors have urged festival-goers to drink plenty of water over the five-day event.
“Being outdoors in the heat can be physically demanding, especially if you’re on your feet, dancing,” says Nick Higginson, CEO of Phoenix Health & Safety.
“If you combine this with drinking alcohol, it can easily lead to exhaustion.”
He recommended packing a large reusable bottle to refill between sets, with hundreds of free water points available around the site.
PATinnitus
Thousands of attendees are excited to see amazing performances from the likes of Dua Lipa and Shania Twain, however, the thumping bass during these sets could lead to tinnitus.
“Prolonged exposure to loud music can permanently damage the delicate structures of the inner ear, and cause hearing loss and tinnitus,” explained Hannah Samuels, an audiologist at Boots Hearingcare.
She suggests using hearing protection – ear plugs of muffs – “as these lower the level of sound, but still enable you to hear everything – and it can often sound better, too”.
Drug use
Glastonbury Festival has warned people not to bring illegal substances to the event, with a statement on its site saying: “The dealing in or use of illegal drugs is not condoned by the festival and drug enforcement laws are as applicable on the festival site as anywhere else in the country – you risk being evicted from the site if found with them.”
Medical and welfare services are available on site, which festival attendees are encouraged to access immediately if they fall ill.
A joint release published by Somerset Council and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) included a list of potential signs of overdose to be aware of, which include:
- falling unconscious
- very light shallow breathing or no breathing
- loud raspy ‘snoring’ or gurgling
- blue or pale lips or fingertips
Athlete’s foot
Busy festivals like Glastonbury are breeding grounds for bacteria, but Dr Adam Staten, clinical director at One Day Tests and NHS GP, advises campers to keep their feet as clean as possible.
“Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection which thrives in moist conditions,” explains Dr Staten.
“You can avoid athlete’s foot by keeping your feet clean and dry, and allowing air to get to them when possible.”
PASprained ankles
Sandals might be tempting, but protecting your ankles is more sensible, said Mr Higginson:
“While it’s fun to put on colourful outfits, wearing unsupportive shoes like sandals can easily lead to sprained ankles, which could result in the rest of your weekend being a lot less enjoyable,” he says.
“Make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement, along with closed-toe shoes with good traction and support, that can help prevent slips, trips and falls on uneven ground.”
Sunburn and heatstroke
Bright blue skies have arrived just in time for Glastonbury 2024 and it is set to stay warm in Pilton next week.
The NHS recommends using sun cream with at least SPF 30, and four or five-star ultraviolet A (UVA) protection.
Ticket holders have been urged to stay alert and hydrated in case sunburn snowballs into heat exhaustion – or the much more serious heatstroke.
Dizziness, headaches, feeling sick and excessive sweating, are all signs of heat exhaustion, according to the NHS. However, if these symptoms do not subside after 30 minutes, it could be heatstroke.
The UKHSA has also warned a loss of appetite and cramps in the arms, legs and stomach are all potential signs of heat-related harm.
Anyone needing medical help while at the festival should head to one of the medical tents available across the site.
