By an edhat reader
KEYT just posted a story about the increased security measures for Fiesta this year, especially in light of this past weekend’s tragedy. Just wondering what tips/suggestions any Edhatters have out there about being safe in a crowded festival like this? Are there maybe certain times of day that may be safer? Certain things to be on the lookout for? Any thoughts?
Supposedly the MacKenzie Park El Mercado venue is safer. Good luck parking. Careful when you cross the street. Distracted drivers abound.
Live life to the fullest and don’t be too paranoid… That said there are things to consider.
If you are drinking alcohol, have a designated driver. Always keep an eye on your drinks, and try to look out for yourself and others. If someone seems very intoxicated, offer to drive them a taxi and double check with them they have a ride (and that they know the ‘friends’ that might be saying they’ll take care of them)- a lot of drugged drinks happen at large crowd gatherings and it’s always good to keep it in mind.
If you are in a group, make sure everyone has their phones, and make plans to meet at a specified spot in case you guys separate. This is especially important if you’re with a group with younger and older people. This can be a meet-up spot in case some sort of emergency happens too.
Make sure your doors and windows are closed and locked before you go out the burglars work overtime over Fiesta.
I’m sure people thought that the garlic festival was “safe” too. Sadly I don’t think anyone could ever prepare for an unexpected event since it’s just that, unexpected. If you are constant waiting for a shooting or some type of tragedy every time you step out you’re just going to up going crazy. Enjoy your life.
I’d stay away from parades and horses for starters. Ditto margaritas and State Street especially between 11am and 6am. Wear a hat to avoid sunburn and cascarones.
Do what my family and I do: stay home. That’s your best bet.
PITMIX – you’ve been deleted already twice for the snarky suggestion to just “celebrate in Spain.” It’s not just me downvoting you, there are at least 5 others.
6 accounts is a little excessive pitmix I doubt all of your downvotes are from the same person. I have only one account and I downvoted you. Try saying better things and you won’t get downvoted all the time. I get downvoted too don’t take it too personal can’t please everyone.
Why don’t the cops scope out parks where people drink wine who are clearly intoxicated while driving plenty of dui’s would be cited
There have been mass shootings for along time no matter who or which party is in office your vote is not going to change Homicidal behavior or someones desire to kill others…Live your life don’t be paranoid while your watching out for one thing something else gets you.
Stay at home during Fiesta week. Stock up on plenty of food, snacks, alcohol (if you like to get a good buzz), ammo if you are a gun owner just in case someone breaks into your home, sit back and enjoy the comfort of your home. Or leave SB and visit a nice quiet little town by the ocean or nearby mountains. If you decide to getaway from SB during Fiesta week and get a good reliable house and pet sitter. That’s if you have any pets.
Mom said motorcycle gangs came to SB for Fiesta, way back in the day. She remembers broken bottles and fights. Grandma said she used to go to dances in Montecito’s Spanish town, before 1910 when she married. Grams said there was a stabbing every week.
Statistically safer to celebrate in Europe due to fewer mass shootings there. So maybe Fiesta in Spain is a good idea? Let the mass shooting supporters start the downvoting now.