Fire service's tips on how festival revellers can stay safe

Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons performed at the Reading Festival last year

A fire service has given Reading Festival revellers tips on how to keep themselves safe.

The Richfield Avenue festival opened its doors on Wednesday and will close on Sunday.

The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service said attendees should not use portable barbecues but must stay alert around the River Thames, which runs nearby.

“At festivals, we want you to enjoy yourself safely. Please take care and do your part to prevent fire ruining the festivities,” Gail Muirhead, the service’s West Hub Prevention Manager, said.

The service told people to dispose of cigarettes and litter properly.

If anyone finds themselves in trouble in water, they should try not to panic and thrash about. Instead, they should lean back and extend their arms and legs to float.

Festival organisers have set up Assistance, Information and Response (AIR) Hubs around its campsites to provide help if there are emergencies.

Attendees should familiarise themselves with their nearest one when they arrive, the service said.