NHS Greater Manchester urges Parklife festival goers to stay safe this summer
As tens of thousands of music fans prepare to descend on Manchester’s Parklife Festival this month, we are reminding festival goers to keep the good vibes going by staying safe, hydrated and prepared before heading to Heaton Park.
Parklife, one of the UK’s biggest music festivals, returns to Heaton Park on 20–21 June, with around 80,000 people expected each day.
Whether you’re there for the headline acts, dancing all day with friends, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, NHS Greater Manchester is encouraging people to plan ahead so they can enjoy the weekend safely.
Top tips for a safe festival
Festival goers are being reminded to:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Wear sunscreen and reapply it regularly – you can take up to 200ml inside with you.
- Look out for friends and stick together.
- Pace alcohol consumption and avoid mixing substances.
- Pack any prescription medication you may need – these will need to be in a clear bag for inspection upon arrival.
- Seek help if you need it – medical assistance is available at the festival’s medical and welfare area.
- Remember to Get to Know Where to Go for NHS help outside of the festival.
Small steps can make a big difference
With long days outdoors, warm temperatures and packed crowds expected, health leaders say small steps can help prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and unnecessary trips to A&E.
Expert advice from NHS Greater Manchester
Dr Manisha Kumar, Chief Clinical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester, said:
“Parklife is a huge part of Manchester’s summer events and we want everyone to enjoy themselves safely. Festivals can mean long hours in the sun, lots of walking and dancing, and it can be easy to forget basics like drinking water, eating properly and protecting your skin.
“We are also asking people to check they have any prescription medication they might need before heading off for the weekend, especially inhalers, insulin or regular medicines.
“If you do become unwell while at the festival there is a dedicated medical and welfare area. If you are outside of the festival, remember Get to Know Where to Go because using the right NHS service helps you get the care you need quickly and keeps emergency departments free for those who need them most.”
Know where to go for NHS help
We are also reminding people that many minor health concerns can be treated through pharmacies, by calling NHS 111, visiting NHS 111 online, or attending an urgent treatment centre, without needing to go to A&E.
For more information, visit Get to Know Where to Go.