With warmer weather and longer days, festival season is upon us in Tigard! Whether you’re attending the Forth of July drone show, a summer concert, or movies in the park, large outdoor gatherings can be a lot of fun—but they also come with specific safety risks. As your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), we want to help you enjoy these events safely and confidently.
Here are some key preparedness tips and tricks to keep in mind:
1. Plan Before You Go
- Check event details: Know where to park, what you can bring, and where emergency services are located. Visit the event’s website or follow social media updates for any last-minute changes or safety notices.
- Review the weather forecast: In Oregon, outdoor weather can change quickly. Bring layers, sunscreen, a poncho, or a hat—whatever the forecast calls for.
2. Pack a Small “Go Kit”
Even for day events, a mini preparedness kit can make all the difference:
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks or energy bars
- Portable phone charger
- Sunscreen and hand sanitizer
- Small flashlight or glow stick
- Emergency contact info and ID
- Basic first aid supplies (bandages, wipes, pain relievers)
3. Have a Family or Group Plan
- Pick a meeting point: Choose a visible, easy-to-find spot in case your group gets separated. Teach children how to find staff or police if they get lost.
- Agree on a communication plan: Not all events have good reception. Pre-arrange check-in times or fallback methods (like text messaging, which often works better than calls in crowded areas).
4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
- Identify exits, medical tents, and security locations when you arrive.
- If something doesn’t feel right—trust your instincts and report suspicious activity to event staff or authorities.
5. Consider Accessibility & Health Needs
- Bring necessary medications or mobility devices.
- Look for ADA-compliant viewing areas or shuttle options if needed.
- Protect against heat exhaustion by drinking plenty of water and finding shade.
6. Prepare for Traffic and Evacuations
- Large events often mean traffic congestion. Give yourself extra time and consider biking, using public transportation or carpooling.
- In the rare event of an evacuation (due to fire, severe weather, or another emergency), follow instructions from officials immediately. Know multiple exit routes if possible.
7. Be a Good Neighbor
- CERT is all about community resilience. Watch out for those around you—especially children, seniors, and individuals who may need help in an emergency.
8. Stay Informed
- Emergencies can be overwhelming, but preparation empowers you to act confidently. For more tips, visit Ready.gov
- The City of Tigard uses the CodeRED system to notify the community of safety or property issues. Sign up for local weather alerts and emergency notifications!
Tigard CERT Inc. is a local non-profit organization allied with the City of Tigard that trains volunteers in basic emergency response and organizational skills following the Federal Emergency Management Agency model and guidelines for local Community Emergency Response Teams. For more information about Tigard CERT, please visit www.tigard-or.gov/your-government/departments/public-works/emergency-management.
