How should I plan medical services and first aid at events?

Planning medical coverage for attendee safety

Medical planning depends on event size, activities, and local requirements. Basic first aid stations may suffice for small gatherings, while large events need on-site paramedics and co-ordination with local EMS.

Medical planning steps:

  • Assess risks: consider heat, physical activity, alcohol, and crowd density.
  • Contract professional medical providers based on estimated attendance and risk profile.
  • Locate first-aid stations centrally and ensure they’re clearly signed.

Operational tips:

  1. Provide staff and volunteers with basic first-aid training and emergency contacts.
  2. Maintain communication with local hospitals and EMS for major incidents.
  3. Ensure medical teams have radio or phone connectivity for rapid response.

Clear signage, staffed stations, and visible medical personnel increase attendee confidence and reduce response times during incidents.