Crime Prevention Advice
This year’s Bestival is set to attract 30,000 music fans. The vibe for the weekend will be relaxed and fun, but at any huge gathering there is bound to be some crime.
A small minority of people attending the Bestival see it as an opportunity to commit crime, mainly stealing from tents and vehicles.
Bestival organisers and Hampshire Constabulary are working hard to keep crime levels down on-site, but you can help yourselves by following the advice below:
Do not attempt to bring illegal drugs into the festival.
Searches will be carried out. If you take prescribed medication keep it with you at all times. These types of drugs are often sought by thieves.
Only bring with you what you can afford to lose.
Remember, there’s no way you can make a tent 100% secure. Don’t challenge people looking through tents — report them to Bestival staff or the police.
Camp near friends.
There’s safety in numbers. Say ‘hello’ to your neighbours to build a community feeling and provide greater security around your tent.
Mark you property.
Label your belongings, including your tent, with your postcode. Thieves are after unidentifiable property, so make sure the markings are obvious and indelible.
Protect your mobile phone.
Do this now: on your mobile phone key in *#06# and your unique International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number will be displayed. Make a note of this number so that if you lose your phone or if it is stolen you can contact your service provider to have the phone immobilised.
Keep cash and possessions on you.
But don’t keep all your money, bank cards and valuables together — spread them around in different pockets. Before going to sleep, place valuable items in a plastic bag and hide it in your sleeping bag with you. There will be lockers available — USE THEM!
If you are unfortunate to become a victim of crime there will be police officers and Bestival staff on-site to whom you can report the incident. Alternatively, call Hampshire Constabulary on: 0845 045 45 45
Hampshire Constabulary - www.hampshire.police.uk