With February underway, there is normally a full slate of exciting events for women and men of all ages to enjoy across the country. From dazzling ice sculptures to live music performances and skijoring, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season’s charm.

However, even pleasant and enjoyable gatherings present their own set of risks. Crowded spaces, late-night activities, and unpredictable weather create situations that require extra caution no matter what your level of experience is.

Are you planning to join one soon? Read on to learn how to mitigate the common dangers associated with winter festivals.

Extremely Low Temperatures

It goes without saying that February is a cold month in many cities, and the cold weather poses the biggest threat during winter festivals or any outdoor activity during this season.

As temperatures fall, the risk of frostbite and hypothermia increases.

According to the National Safety Council, there is a 120% rise in weather-related injuries over the last five years during this season, emphasizing the necessity of thorough preparation.

What to Do:

Monitor the weather forecast on your smart phone using the weather app leading up to and during the event. If a storm is predicted and you can sense impending severe elements, be ready to adjust your plans or cancel them if needed.

You can also use the event-provided amenities since they are most likely included in the entrance fee. Event organizers typically set up campfires and picnic areas where attendees can gather, or they might have booths offering hot drinks like hot cocoa chocolate to help keep everyone feeling toasty and satisfied. Or better yet if food and drinks are allowed, bring your own beverages in a high-quality thermos so you won’t have to wait in line, and you can save some money while you're at it since festivals can be costly.

Along with hot beverages, dressing appropriately is very important to keeping your body warm while outdoors. Make sure to wear a full winter outfit, including a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield yourself from the elements and stay comfortable throughout the event.

Icy Roads and Pathways

Sleek, icy roads and pathways are notorious for causing accidents, and they can be exacerbated when it's night or dark out. The US Federal Highway Administration reports that around 1,300 people die and more than 116,800 are injured in vehicle accidents on snowy, slushy, or icy roads each year. Therefore, it may be worth reconsidering your plans or finding an alternate route if the streets are in bad shape. If a winter storm has just passed and you must go to the festival, make sure to plan ahead and give yourself some extra time so you aren't rushing to get there.

What to Do:

On the bright side, there are several things you can do to avoid slipping on icy walkways at a winter festival when walking around.

Wear shoes or boots with a lugged, chunky outsole. This type of footwear provides excellent slip resistance and is heavier to sort of anchor your feet and body down, and can really help when icy conditions can pop up out of nowhere. Another option to consider is bringing walking poles to assist with balance - even though they might look bulky and silly, they might be worth it to help you walk and navigate the treacherous terrain.

Another easy tip is to take smaller steps and go slowly to reduce the risk of losing your footing. Keep your hands free so you can catch yourself if necessary. Also, watch out for any wet or shiny spots, as they’re often ice in disguise. Take your time and stick to salted or sanded paths whenever possible.

If you come across a patch of ice, stay low and balanced, and try walking with your feet slightly turned outward to improve grip. Just keep in mind that weather can change quickly, so stay alert for new hazards. Don’t hesitate to let the staff know if you spot any dangerous areas, as they’ll be able to address these issues promptly.

Overcrowding and Stampedes

Overcrowding at winter festivals can be dangerous, scary, and sudden, especially when large crowds move unpredictably. A quick surge of people can quickly spiral into a stampede, leading to falls, trampling injuries, and asphyxiation. The cold only makes things worse as your body is less apt to protect itself or adapt to changing situations. If someone falls and can’t get up, hypothermia can set in fast.

What to Do:

To stay safe, try to arrive early to avoid peak crowds. Keep an eye on your surroundings and watch for areas where people tend to gather tightly. If you notice the crowd getting too dense, make your way to a more open space before it becomes overwhelming. If you’re with kids, hold their hands and keep them close at all times. Crowded festivals truthfully may not be worth it with small and young kids as there are many more risks with them in tow.

If a stampede does break out, protect your head and chest while staying on your feet. Move with the crowd instead of against it to avoid getting knocked down. Most importantly, take a moment when you arrive to locate emergency exits and escape routes—knowing where to go in an emergency is one of the best steps you can take.

Groping and Sexual Assault

Crowded spaces make it easier for people to get away with inappropriate things, especially at outdoor music festivals. The atmosphere, combined with packed crowds and the desire to meet new people, often creates a setting where offenders feel like they have an excuse for their actions.

The way festivals are set up also makes it easier for sexual violence to go unnoticed. Research has shown that large crowds give perpetrators a sense of anonymity, allowing them to pass off groping as an “accident” or just part of the festival environment. This anonymity is even stronger at night, when poor lighting, crazy energies, and chaotic spaces make it harder to hold people accountable.

In these conditions, some offenders feel emboldened to engage in criminal and abusive behavior, knowing they are unlikely to be caught.

What to Do:

To mitigate the risks of sexual assault at festivals, several practical steps can be taken such as:

• Ensure you are with a group of friends, establishing a buddy system where everyone looks out for each other.
• Create a bubble or space with your friends to give yourselves more space and to not let other people crowd you or gain access.
• Keep drinks in sight at all times. Also keep an eye on your friends' drinks, and any other persons' in your immediate area. If you see something say something, and you can help an innocent person from becoming a victim.
• Practice spatial awareness and be vigilant about your personal space.
• As mentioned above, familiarize yourself with the festival's layout, knowing where the well-lit areas, emergency exits, and help points are located.
• Communicate with festival staff about any concerns, as they are often trained or more empowered to deal with such issues and can provide immediate assistance. Alert security or seek help from nearby staff or volunteers.
• Lastly, consider bringing personal safety devices or apps that can alert friends or authorities if you find yourself in a precarious situation.

Theft

Large crowds at winter festivals, regardless of the time of day, can create fertile ground for pickpocketing and theft. Criminals like using the volume and energy of people to mask their intentions. The chaotic atmosphere, combined with the excitement of the event, often distracts attendees, making them more vulnerable to opportunistic thieves.

What to Do:

First, keep valuables secured on your body and out of sight; use anti-theft bags or wear money belts under your clothing. Be mindful of your surroundings and maintain a clear awareness of others in close proximity.

When possible, travel in groups to enhance safety and support one another. Establish a meeting point in case anyone gets separated, and ensure that everyone knows how to contact each other. Use smart GPS apps to locate each other.

Additionally, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use credit or debit cards instead. 

Avoiding Dangers at Winter Festivals

Winter festivals make the cold feel worth it and create a different experience from the hot sunny summers. However fun frosty events also come with their own set of challenges. That's why we encourage you to follow these guidelines to ensure you could keep the fun going and make the most of the season.

If you found this post helpful, share it with friends who love winter festivals as much as you do. Got your own winter safety tips? Drop them in the comment section below.