An Garda Síochána have issued their advice for crime prevention surrounding the Electric Picnic.
In trying to make sure that Ireland’s largest music and arts festival passes off without incident, they have offered the following tips to Electric Picnic attendees.
They have also asked those attending to comply with directions for parking and traffic routes including pick up and drop off area.
DON’T
• Don’t bring valuables to the event. Only bring with you what you can afford to lose. There is no way to make a tent 100 percent secure, so only bring what you absolutely need.
• Don’t be tempted to leave valuables in your vehicle. Empty the glove box and leave it open to show thieves there is nothing of value inside. Remember where you parked your car. Car parks are clearly marked and identifiable.
• Don’t keep all your money, bank cards and valuables together. Keep them in different pockets.
• Don’t leave your backpack or handbag unattended.
• Don’t challenge people if you witness an incident. Report suspicious activity to event security, staff or Gardaí immediately. Remember Use your Brain not Your Fists.
• Don’t bring illegal drugs to the festival there are dedicated units on site throughout the event for drug crime investigation. Don’t make a decision that will result in a court appearance and conviction.
DO’S
• Remember there’s safety in groups, camp with friends or make friends with your neighbours – they will keep an eye on your tent while you’re gone and you the same for them!
• Remember where you pitched your tent. It will be dark when you return.
• Remember to use on-site lock-ups to store property each time you enter and leave the site.
• Remember to drink alcohol responsibly.
• Record your unique 15 digit mobile phone International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.
It is a 15-digit number on the back of your handset under the battery and can be found on most hand-sets by pressing *#06# on your phone key-pad.
The IMEI will appear on the screen. Save a screenshot of your IMEI number. Email the Image to yourself or a friend.
Consider saving a contact number (other then your number) of a friend or family member as a screen saver which will help establish ownership of your phone should it be handed into security or Garda e.g. this phone belongs to (First name) if found please contact ( number).
• Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone. Cultivate a “buddy” system. Tell someone where you’re going and when to expect you back. Only use the well lit walking tracks on site during the hours of darkness. Keep your phone fully charged and remember in the event of an emergency dial 112 or 999.
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