Island Health is encouraging people attending summer festivals to make safety part of their plans. Medical Health Officer Dr. Melissa Wan says everyone has a role to play.

Organizers can help by providing drinking water, shade, first aid, drug checking services and naloxone, while festivalgoers can reduce their risk by making use of those services, pacing themselves and watching out for friends.

"A safe festival is a shared effort. Organizers can support attendees by providing shade, water, first aid, drug checking services, and naloxone on site, and attendees can do their part by using these supports, pacing themselves, and watching out for those around them," said Medical Health Officer Dr. Melissa Wan. 

Island Health says the ongoing toxic drug crisis means unregulated substances remain highly unpredictable and potentially deadly.

People are encouraged to avoid mixing substances, carry naloxone, use drug checking services when available, and recognize overdose warning signs, including slow or stopped breathing, blue lips or fingertips, and difficulty waking someone. If an overdose happens, call 911 immediately, give rescue breaths every 5 seconds, and administer naloxone if available.

Heat safety is also a concern at outdoor events.

Dr. Wan says heat-related illness can develop even when temperatures aren't extreme, especially after long periods in the sun, physical activity, or alcohol and drug use.

Warning signs include nausea, confusion, flushed skin, rapid breathing and a racing heartbeat.

Island Health recommends drinking plenty of water, wearing lightweight clothing, taking breaks in the shade, and visiting the event's first aid station if medical assistance is needed. In an emergency, call 911.

To learn more, visit Island Health.