Stampedes can occur at any time and in any place where large crowds gather, often exceeding the capacity of the venue. Some common locations for stampedes are grounds, halls, bridges, stadiums, and streets, especially where there is not enough space for people to move around freely. In the past, there have been many stampedes that have occurred around the world, including several in India. For example, in 2017, a stampede at a railway station in Mumbai resulted in the deaths of 23 people and injuries to 39 others. One of the deadliest stampedes occurred in Wai Town, Maharashtra, in 2005, claiming 265 lives. Another tragic incident in Himachal Pradesh resulted in 145 deaths, while a stampede in Rajamundry, Andhra Pradesh, saw 27 people lose their lives. In Prayagraj, a major stampede led to at least 36 fatalities. Stampedes are tragic because they leave people helpless, often resulting in death or serious injury. To ensure your safety at large public gatherings, it's important to follow essential survival tips and safety guidelines. Watch the videos below to learn how to survive a human stampede. Hathras Stampede: 116 Killed in Stampede at Satsang in Uttar Pradesh; FIR Registered Against Organisers of Religious Event.

What Causes a Stampede?

Stampedes happen due to a combination of factors. They include overcapacity, poor crowd control, loose or dangerous structures and inadequately planned event spaces. Venues that lack clear exits, have narrow spaces, physical barriers, or concession stands that block exits and cause congestion are prone to stampedes. Additional factors include moving vehicles being in the same space as pedestrians. While trampling might seem like the main reason for injuries and deaths in a stampede, a lack of oxygen is often the cause. The crushing of the crowd can make it difficult to breathe and lead to compressive asphyxia. Let’s learn how to survive a stampede.

Surviving a Stampede

How To Survive a Stampede?

  • Be observant. Note all exit points, including fire exits and accessible windows, as you enter the venue.

  • Check out the location of medical and first-aid facilities.

  • If the crowd size increases and you feel uncomfortable, leave while you can move freely.

  • Always stay on your feet.

  • Avoid pushing, pulling, yelling, or screaming. Conserve your energy instead.

  • Use sign language to communicate with others, like pointing out exits or alternative doors.

  • Keep your hands in front of your chest, like a boxer, to create space and help you breathe.

  • Stay away from fences, barriers, and barricades.

  • Stand on even, level ground to avoid slipping, especially in wet or muddy areas.

  • Watch out for cans, bottles and other trash that you could trip over.

  • Move with the crowd, walking at the same speed as those around you.

  • When going up stairs, hills, or an escalator, hold onto railings for support if available. Hathras Stampede: 3 Men Hurl Stones at Poster of Bhole Baba as Death Toll Climbs to 121, Video Surfaces.

Human Stampede Survival Tips

Essential Skills Needed To Survive a Stampede

Do keep these important points in mind to stay safe in a stampede situation. Staying aware and prepared can make a significant difference. Stay aware. Stay safe!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 08, 2024 01:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).