Health and safety at Carnival
Tips for enjoying Carnival safely:
- plan your journey in advance, as some roads and tube stations may be closed or have restrictions
- check the carnival map before you travel
- check the weather forecast and dress for the conditions
- drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot weather
- charge your phone before you leave and consider bringing a portable charger
- leep valuables out of sight and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
- mobile signals can be patchy, so agree a meeting point with friends or family in case you get separated
- if you feel unsafe or see something suspicious, speak to a police officer or steward
- if you choose to drink alcohol, drink responsibly and never accept drinks from strangers you have not seen prepared
- if you or someone else are lost, contact a steward or police officer as soon as possible
- if you or someone else feels unwell, visit a first aid centre or speak to an event steward
- wash or sanitise your hands regularly to help prevent illness
- do not attend Carnival if you're feeling unwell.
For advice on staying safe in hot weather, visit the NHS website.
Medical help and welfare support
Medical treatment centres, medical response teams and ambulances will be located across the Carnival area.Welfare spaces will also be available.
Check the carnival map for locations.
If someone needs medical help
If the person is mobile, help them get to the nearest treatment centre.
If they cannot move or be moved safely, ask a steward or police officer foe help. They can often arrange assistance faster than calling emergency services.
If you cannot find a steward or police officer, call 999.
Be ready to tell the emergency operator:
- what has happened
- if the person is conscious and breathing
- if there is any serious bleeding or difficulty breathing
- the person's age and gender if known
- how many people need help
- the exact location of the emergency
Use house numbers, street names, landmarks, shops or the nearest junction. If you use the What Three Words app, you can share your precise location with emergency services.
Stay with the person until help arrives and be ready to guide to medical staff to your location.
Flying drones
Drones must not be flown in the Carnival area.
Anyone flying a drone may have it seized and could face prosecution.
Fire safety
Barbecues
Barbecues are not allowed in public places, including parks.
If you're planning to use a barbeque at home, check any rules set by your landlord or property owner.
To use a barbeque safely:
- place it on a flat surface, stable surface
- use approved firelighters only, never petrol, paraffin or other use accelerants
- keep the barbecue outside, away from buildings, fences, sheds, furniture and trees
- never use disposable barbecues indoors, on balconies or dry grass
- do not leave the barbecue unattended
- keep children, pets and games away from the cooking are
- avoid drinking alcohol if you are responsible for the barbecue
- allow the barbecue to cool fully before disposing of ashes.
If there is a fire at your property
- warn others and leave the building immediately
- stay outside once you have left
- call 999 and ask for the Fire Brigade
- make sure everyone follows the property's fire escape plan.
More for safety information
The London Fire Brigade offers a free Home Fire Safety Checker.
They may also offer follow-up advice or a free in-person Home Fire Safety Visit.