AUSTIN, Texas — With the Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) kicking off this weekend, health officials are warning about common issues seen during ACL and how to prevent injuries.
Payton Bowyer, a trauma injury prevention coordinator at St. David's South Austin Medical Center, said the biggest health issues he usually sees during ACL are heat-related sicknesses, alcohol-related injuries and pedestrian injuries.
"Even though it is getting a little bit cooler for, you know, Texas terms, I would say make sure that you are still putting on sunscreen and you're staying hydrated when you walk in there, locate those hydration zones so you can go and refill," Bowyer said.
Bowyer said anyone drinking alcohol during the festival needs to make sure they're staying hydrated as well, saying that many people don't realize that alcohol can cause dehydration.
"So make sure that you are also keeping up with those fluids as well and be aware of your surroundings. I would say also stay with your group because ... when you're under the influence, it's a little bit easier to lose your group," Bowyer said.
A lot of scooters are used during the festival and around Downtown Austin, so health officials caution pedestrians and drivers to keep their heads up and stay vigilant.
"A lot of times when we're walking around, especially after the festival, we're going to be on our phones looking for where we're going to go next, how we're going to get home, things like that. But make sure you're keeping an eye out and looking out for those cars," Bowyer said. "And then also, if you are the driver, make sure you are keeping an eye out for those scooters in those large crowds and being extra aware around those areas."
Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) and the Austin Police Department (APD) will be on-site during the festival to assist with any emergencies.
"So if you need anything, I would not hesitate to reach out to them there. That's what they're there for. They're there to help you," Bowyer said.
If you see anything suspicious or if someone's having a medical emergency, call 911. For any non-emergencies, call 311.