[5 min read]
In this article:
- With a full calendar of sports, music and outdoor events coming up, this summer will be a busy one in the Puget Sound area.
- It's worth keeping in mind that long, hot days in big crowds can come with safety risks and a little planning can keep your outing from becoming a day at the emergency department.
- A Providence Swedish Redmond ER doc has some tips to help you stay healthy and enjoying the local buzz all summer long.
Seattle is gearing up for an exciting summer filled with major sporting events, concerts, festivals and the FIFA World Cup. While these events bring energy and excitement to the city, they also come with health and safety risks that can turn a fun day into an unexpected trip to the emergency room.
According to Lucy Goodson, M.D., emergency physician at Providence Swedish Redmond, a little preparation can go a long way.
“Many of the reasons people end up needing medical attention at large events are preventable,” she says. “Planning out how you’ll stay hydrated, well fed, protected from the sun and in contact with your friends can help avoid serious injuries and illness.”
Common event-related injuries
Large crowds can create a variety of health and safety concerns. Dr. Goodson says some of the most common reasons people seek medical care during major events include falls, sprains, strains, fainting, chest pain, heat-related illness and insect bites.
Even in the comparatively mild temperatures of the Pacific Northwest, warm weather and long hours outdoors can take a toll.
Early signs of dehydration include increased thirst, dark urine, lightheadedness and reduced urine output. Head exhaustion can cause nausea, dizziness, headaches, muscle cramps, rapid heart rate and rapid breathing. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can cause confusion, loss of sweating, body temperatures above 104 degrees and even organ failure.
“Summer in Seattle is a marathon, not a sprint. Look out for your future self. With a little planning, you can enjoy the season safely and be ready for the next event on your calendar.”
“If the venue doesn’t allow you to bring in your own water bottle, find the water station on your way in and drink a cup before you start the show or game,” says Dr. Goodson. “It’s hard to justify high prices for a water bottle at some of these events, but it’s worth getting one if the event will be longer than a few hours.”
She recommends drinking water regularly throughout the day, seeking shade when needed and carrying a portable fan during hot weather.
Pack smart and plan ahead
A few simple items can make a big difference at a crowded event.
Dr. Goodson recommends bringing water, sunscreen, lip balm, a hat, ear plugs, hand sanitizer and a snack, like a protein or nutrition bar. A small first-aid kit with bandages, blister protection, cleansing wipes and antibiotic ointment can also come in handy.
Equally important is having a plan if your group gets separated.
“Agree to a pick-up spot and time in case your friend’s phone dies,” she says. “And bring an external battery pack if you’re someone who lives on hope and a 10% charged phone battery all the time.”
For people with chronic health conditions, she recommends carrying a current medication list and emergency contact information. Those with conditions such as epilepsy, severe allergies or diabetes may also benefit from wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace.
Alcohol, scooters and other preventable risks
Sporting events and festivals often involve alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration, poor decision-making and injuries.
Dr. Goodson advises alternating alcoholic drinks with water, eating before drinking and setting limits in advance. “Aim for less than three drinks in a night,” she says.
She also cautions against riding scooters or e-bikes after drinking.
“Most people don’t bring a helmet with them to event, but these scooters and e-bikes can get as fast as 15 miles per hour or more,” she says. “We have seen plenty of serious and life-threatening injuries from falls on e-bikes and scooters.”
Protect yourself from common injuries
Hours of walking, standing and navigating crowded venues can increase the risk of falls, blisters and other injuries.
Dr. Goodson recommends wearing supportive shoes rather than sandals or flip-flops and bringing blister supplies if you’ll be spending long days on your feet. If mobility is a concern, contact the venue’s ADA office ahead of time to learn about available accommodations.
When the event ends, consider waiting 15 to 20 minutes before heading for the exits to avoid the rush of crowds.
With a little planning and awareness, residents and visitors can enjoy a memorable summer while avoiding unnecessary trips to the emergency room. “Summer in Seattle is a marathon, not a sprint,” Dr. Goodson says. “Look out for your future self. With a little planning, you can enjoy the season safely and be ready for the next event on your calendar.”
Learn more and find a physician or advanced practice clinician (APC)
Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, Providence Swedish is here for you. Contact Swedish Primary Care to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider. You can also connect virtually with your clinician to review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. And with Swedish ExpressCare Virtual you can receive treatment in minutes for common conditions such as colds, flu, urinary tract infections, and more. You can use our provider directory to find a specialist or primary care physician near you.
Information for patients and visitors
Additional resources
Buckle up. Wear a helmet. And other words of wisdom from an ER doc.
Your eyes need SPF too. Learn why UV protection for your eyes matters in the summer — and all year l
Narcan: a lifesaving tool you should know about
The best ER visit is the one you never have to make
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional's instructions.
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