With Wokingham Pride 2024 coming up this weekend and Reading Pride following in August, the security experts at Get Licensed have shared tips for staying safe when celebrating at the event.
“Pride events happen all over the country, with thousands of LGBTQ+ members and allies gathering in support of the marginalised groups involved,” says Get Licensed CEO Shahzad Ali. “These marches are a form of peaceful protest, however, some people view them differently, sometimes leading to violence, aggression and discriminative actions. Nevertheless, recent years have seen greater protocols put in place to protect those attending the events, such as trained security professionals and conduct guidelines for residents, visitors and volunteers.
“Due to the scale of some of these events, you must know how to best keep yourself and your friends safe. Setting a meeting point is crucial, choose a noticeable landmark or building that is easily identifiable by everyone in your group. In the instance that your group gets split up, this spot can prove essential for finding one another again amid the crowd. Crowds can also attract pickpockets so keep all your belongings in sight and close to your body. Having a bag that zips up is ideal as it makes the task harder for the pickpockets, but also wearing a bum bag keeps all items close to the front of your body, away from pickpocketing sleight of hand.
“If you are pickpocketed, having emergency cash on you can be your saving grace. Have this kept in an unsuspecting place such as a concealed pocket or even in your shoe – somewhere it’s unlikely to fall out of or be targeted by thieves. Having spare cash for transport, food, water and other urgent needs is imperative for your safety. However, if you are in a vulnerable position, seek out volunteers or security personnel for help and support. Try to remain calm, being sure not to spook any security animals or anyone around you. Due to Pride being a protest, some people can be on edge and on high alert, so remaining composed can help you stay safe.”
Here are five top tips for those planning on attending a march during this Pride season.
1: Set a Meeting Point
Before heading into the march and celebrations, decide on a meeting place for your group. If someone gets split from the group, you will know where to find one another. Ensure this is an identifiable spot, such as a stand-out building or landmark. Often in large crowds, phone service can be disrupted, and having a meeting point is crucial if you can’t get ahold of one another.
2: Beware of Pickpockets
Large crowds can be a hive for pickpockets so stay vigilant when it comes to your belongings. Use a bag that’s close to your body, such as a cross-body bag or bum bag, keeping these on your front at all times. Turn your phone’s location on and connect it to your friends’ devices, this way you can track it if it’s taken or dropped.
3: Emergency Cash
In the instance that you are a victim of pickpocketing or losing items, having some cash on you can be crucial. Keep this in a hidden place such as an inside pocket of your bag or even in your shoe. This cash can then be used for transport home, food, water, anything you need urgently.
4: Check the Weather
The weather can determine certain precautions you need to take. If it’s going to be a heatwave, make sure you have ample sun protection and water. If you find yourself becoming unwell from the heat, seek out volunteers and security personnel for assistance. If it’s going to be wet, wear appropriate footwear and have a raincoat or poncho to protect yourself and your belongings.
5: Respect Security Animals
At large events, there are often security animals such as sniffer dogs and police horses. Act appropriately and respectfully around these animals as they can sometimes be skittish and reactive towards people. Remember, they are there to do their job and to keep you safe, try not to provoke them.
