WHAT TO DO IN A CROWD CRUSH – an informational thread in light of the Itaewon-don Seoul tragedy

WHAT TO DO IN A CROWD CRUSH – an informational thread in light of the Itaewon-don Seoul tragedy. (Read More Here).

Even if you think this will never apply to you, taking a moment to learn what to do in this situation could save your life and the lives of those around you.

1) WHEN YOU ENTER A VENUE, MAKE NOTE OF THE EXITS

If you are attending a concert or large event, make sure you make note of where the emergency exits are when entering. Once it gets too crowded, the main exit may not be the most viable option.

2) LEARN HOW TO WATCH CROWD DENSITY

This may be the most important step in the thread. Once crowd density reaches 6 people per square meter or more, it becomes very dangerous and you may not be able to get out anymore. Prevention is key.

3) UNDERSTAND WHERE CROWD CRUSH HAPPENS

Most crowd crush deaths occur in small spaces such as alleyways, moshpits, or exit hallways of venues. This is why it’s best to leave early and not wait for things to get dangerous since others may get the same idea and crush at the exit.

ALERT PEOPLE

Since crowd crushes occur in loud environments, people outside the crush often have no idea what’s happening. If you are at an organized event and notice a crowd crush, get up high. Alert security and event organizers to stop the music and make everyone aware.

MAKE SPACE AROUND YOUR CHEST

If you are stuck in the crowd and feel its density increasing, make space around your chest with your arms. Pining your arms to your sides or above your head leaves your chest open to being compressed.

GO WITH THE FLOW

Once the crowd reaches 8-9 people per square meter, those inside can’t move freely and the crowd behaves like a liquid. You will feel yourself being moved in different directions, but it’s important you don’t fight it. This clip demonstrates one of these waves.

DO NOT SCREAM AND PUSH

If you begin acting panicked, hostile, and inconsiderate of those around you, it will become contageous. In this situation, pushing one person can lead to a horrible chain reaction. Again, staying calm and moving with the crowd is the safest choice.