As the FIFA World Cup approaches, thousands of Americans will pack into busy stadiums to see the world’s most talented national teams face off.
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While Americans are focused on cheering on the US Men’s National Team, it’s a great time for a little public safety refresher. After all, even if you aren’t heading to a World Cup match this summer, you’re probably heading to another similarly large event sometime this year.
Joe Custer, CEO of Intrado, a public safety communications provider, has tips. As an expert in public safety communications, Custer has hands-on experience with emergency situations—and knows how the average person can put themselves in a better position to handle unpleasant surprises.
Custer says, “This year’s FIFA World Cup will bring packed stadiums and international crowds to major U.S. cities, creating an environment where quick access to emergency help matters, and your phone becomes your fastest connection to it.”
Here’s what he has to say about emergency preparedness.
5 steps to keep yourself safe before attending a World Cup match—or another large event
Again, Custer’s advice is specific to the upcoming World Cup. Still, the approach to public safety and communications is applicable far beyond the sporting world.
Here’s what you can do ahead of time to put yourself in a safer position:
- Most US phones can still access international emergency services, even if you don’t have a full plan. In other words, you should be able to contact 911 regardless of your service status. Double-check before heading out.
- Stadiums usually have their own emergency response systems, including on-site command centers. Do research before you visit the stadium to learn how to get in contact with on-site emergency services—they’ll be able to respond faster than emergency responders from 911, in most cases.
- You can text 911, just in case you aren’t able to speak on the phone safely. Dig into the FCC’s help page on Text-to-911, as it isn’t available in all locations nationwide.
- Most emergency response call centers have live translation resources. Even if you don’t speak English or have a low level of English (or see someone who does), most call centers can still communicate.
- Keep your phone charged, unlocked, and within reach. Remember that emergency responders will also use your phone’s location services to find you, if needed. Don’t let it run out of battery.
