Let’s face it—crowds are unpredictable. Mass gatherings, whether at religious events, concerts, or public rallies, come with risks. They can be exciting one moment and overwhelming the next. When something goes wrong, things escalate fast. Recently, the tragedy at the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 was a stark reminder of how crowds can get out of hand. But, let’s be clear: you can be prepared.

While avoiding large gatherings is ideal, we all know sometimes it’s not an option. Here are some practical tips to help you stay safe in a crowd.

Before You Step Into a Crowd

Know Your Exits

As soon as you enter a large gathering, take a moment to look around for possible exits. While everyone rushes toward the main entry or exit, the sides or emergency exits often offer more room. Keep these paths in mind so you’re not scrambling later.

Dress Smart, Travel Light

Leave the heels or flip-flops at home. Wear comfortable shoes that allow you to move freely. Carry only the essentials to avoid extra baggage that can slow you down. Hands free means you can react quickly if needed.

Have an Emergency Contact Ready

This is a small but crucial step: save an emergency contact on your phone and also write down an emergency number and your address. In case something happens, this info can help first responders identify you and reach your loved ones.

Set a Meeting Spot

If you’re with friends or family, pick a meeting spot beforehand in case you get separated. Cell service might not be reliable in big crowds, so don’t depend on your phone to reconnect. Having a physical place to meet is safer and more reliable.

What to Do If a Stampede Starts

Stay on Your Feet—NO MATTER WHAT

If you fall, getting up immediately gives you the best shot at staying safe. But if you can’t, curl into a fetal position, protect your chest, and cover your head. Staying low can help shield you from being trample and protect your vital organs from the crowd’s pressure

Move With the Crowd, Not Against It

It might sound counterintuitive, but fighting the crowd is only going to wear you out and put you in more danger. Instead, try to move sideways toward the edge where things are less intense.

Create Breathing Space with the “Boxer Stance”

Stand with your feet slightly apart, keep your hands up in front of you like a boxer. This simple move gives you a bit of space to breathe and prevents your ribs from taking the brunt of the pressure.

Look for Higher Ground

If you’re stuck in the middle, look for any higher ground—like stairs or a sturdy ledge—where you can climb to avoid the rush. Elevation not only gives you a better view of the situation but also keeps you safer from the crush of the crowd.

Help, But Be Smart About It

If someone falls or is in danger, help them out if you can—but be quick. Don’t stop moving. Getting stuck can make both of you more vulnerable to injury. Quickly pull them to safety, then keep going.

Once You’re Safe

Check Yourself for Injuries

Adrenaline can mask pain, so once you’re in a safe space, take a moment to check yourself for any injuries. Small bruises can turn into something worse if ignored.

Alert Authorities

If you saw people fall or get injured, don’t just assume others will notice. Call for help immediately. The faster authorities are informed, the quicker they can respond.

Hydrate and Decompress

After a tense experience, your body’s on high alert. Find a safe spot, drink some water, and take a deep breath. Rehydrate and let your pulse calm down. It’ll help you reset mentally and physically.

Final Thoughts

Crowds might not always be dangerous, but when they turn chaotic, everything can change in a second. The key is to be aware, prepared, and ready to act. By staying calm, moving smart, and knowing your exits, you’ve got a much better chance of keeping safe in a dangerous situation.

Share these tips with your friends — it’s better to be safe than sorry.