BOISE – As millions of Americans gear up for summer fun, many will find themselves at a theme park, an outdoor festival, a concert, or some other large group gathering. AAA is sharing tips to keep your family safe.
“There’s nothing quite like that feeling of being separated from others in your group. At best, it can be frustrating, and at worst, it’s terrifying,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Like most things safety-related, advance preparation can make a big difference.”
AAA safety tips
- Take a group photo of your family at the beginning of each day of your trip (or before the event) so that you have a current photo of what everyone is wearing.
- Choose a gathering place that is easy to see from multiple parts of the venue.
- Show small children what an employee or member of law enforcement looks like in case they need help.
- Consider matching shirts or hats to help people in your group stand out in the crowd.
- When walking through a heavy crowd, you may need to walk in a single file with a parent at the beginning and end of the line.
- Make sure everyone applies sunscreen and stays hydrated.
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be on your feet a long time!
“It’s very important to de-escalate tense situations and avoid aggressive behavior,” Conde said. “Everyone wants to have a good time, and no one likes long lines or big crowds. Stay patient, stay safe, and keep your focus on what you can control. Contention won’t make the situation better.”