Happy Pride 2024 from UMBRA International!
Pride events are joyous celebrations of identity, community, and love. As we come together to honour diversity and inclusion, UMBRA International is here to support your well-being during these festive occasions. Our commitment to fostering a Secure Lifestyle extends to every aspect of your life, including special events like Pride.
To enhance your experience and help you make the most of the celebrations, we’ve compiled a set of helpful tips. These suggestions cover the UMBRA Four Pillar Secure Lifestyle approach of physical, digital, and emotional well-being, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pride with confidence and peace of mind.
STAY AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Always be mindful of your environment. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the event, including the locations of exits, security stations, and medical tents. This awareness can help you quickly navigate to safety if necessary.
USE A BUDDY SYSTEM
Attending the event with friends or joining a group can significantly increase your safety. Stick together and keep an eye on each other, especially in crowded areas. If someone gets separated, have a designated meeting point where you can regroup.
SECURE YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Keep your personal belongings secure to prevent theft. Use bags with zippers and keep them close to your body. We recommend TUMI bags for a stylish solution. Avoid carrying unnecessary valuables and consider using anti-theft bags or wallets with RFID protection (this serves as a shield that blocks skimmers from acquiring your credit card information) to guard against digital pickpocketing.
STAY CONNECTED WITH TECHNOLOGY
Make use of technology to stay connected. Share your location with a trusted friend or family member using smartphone apps like Find My Friends or Google Maps or use What3Words for precise meeting spots. Ensure your phone is fully charged and bring a portable charger to maintain communication throughout the event.
KNOW THE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Familiarise yourself with the event’s emergency procedures. Pay attention to announcements and follow instructions from event organisers and security personnel. Know the locations of first aid stations and how to contact emergency services if needed.
STAY HYDRATED AND TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH
Pride events can be long and physically demanding. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and taking regular breaks in shaded or cool areas to avoid overheating. If you have any medical conditions, keep the necessary medications with you and inform a trusted friend about what to do in case of an emergency.
LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
Make sure to take care of your mental health by setting boundaries and taking breaks when needed. Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you, such as meditation, talking to a trusted friend, or spending time in a quiet space. If the event becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to step away and find a calm area to regroup. Remember, it’s okay to prioritise your mental well-being. Consider using resources like the Calm app to help manage stress and find moments of peace. Remember, Pride is about celebrating you – exactly as you are.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Pride event experience is both enjoyable and safe, and celebrate with confidence, knowing you’ve taken steps to protect yourself and your community.
From all of us at Team UMBRA, we wish everyone a happy month of celebrating Pride and throughout the year to follow. If you would like more information on how to strengthen your physical, digital, reputational, and emotional security, contact us here.
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Written by Kim Garrett
