Like other large events that attract big crowds, music festivals attract their fair share of thieves. The organisers do their best to warn festivalgoers to be on the alert for pickpockets and the police use electronic message display boards to provide those attending festivals with tips on how to keep their property safe. Its always best to be prepared though and there are a number of precautions that you can take before leaving home for the festival site.
A carefree festival involves being preparing and staying alert as pickpockets often prey on carefree crowds that are partying. VRT Radio2’s consumer affairs programme 'WinWin' teamed up Interior Ministry’s Security and Prevention Directorate to provide a list of top tips for carefree and crimefree festivals.
Think about what you really need to take with you
The less you have with you, the less can be stolen. So don't take an expensive smartwatch with you if you only intend to use it as a step-counter. Leave other expensive gadgets at home too. Its also a good idea not to take too much cash with you either. It is possible to pay by card or payment app just about anywhere these days.
You should also make sure that you have a safe backpack or bag. Don't show off your possessions and don't put your mobile phone, your bank card and cash in an open pocket. Wear trousers and jumpers that have zips and take a bag or backpack that you can close securely.
Turn off your bank card's contactless payment function or lower your upper limit for contactless payments. By doing this if your card does get stolen, thieves won't be able to plunder your account.
Write the IMEI number down in advance
An IMEI or 'International Mobile Equipment Identity' number is a 15-digit number that can be found on your mobile phone, smartphone or tablet. It is unique to each device. By quoting the number, you can get your device blocked if it is stolen.
You can find the number by going into your phone or other device’s settings. Enter 'IMEI' in the search function. You can also go to the call function of your mobile phone and enter *#06#.
Safe storage
Many festivals provide lockers, albeit sometimes for a fee. Make use of them if they are available. Store your valuables in them. It is best not to leave valuables in a tent as anyone can open it.
Spread your valuables around. Don’t put your phone in the same pocket as your cash and don’t put your bank card in the cover of your smartphone because if your smartphone gets stolen you will have lost your card too. If you take cash, spread it around by storing it in several different places. That way you won't lose all your money if you get robbed.
Make sure you can always keep a close eye on your belongings. Don't store them on your back or the side of your body. Carry your bag on your front.
Watch out if someone bumps into you
Pickpockets often operate in the same way. Someone distracts you and the other steals from you. Several methods are used.
- Someone blocks your way somewhere. A crowd then gathers and while everyone is looking towards the front an accomplice picks your pocket.
- Someone spontaneously hugs you or gives you a present. You don't know what hit you andyou have been knocked for six. Meanwhile, your smartphone or wallet is stolen.
- Someone bumps into you and in the process makes off with your wallet or mobile phone.
- Someone "accidentally" spills something on you. You are distracted and the pickpocket take advantage of this to snatch your valuables.
What should you do if you have become a victim of crime?·
· Has your bank card been stolen? Call Card Stop on 078 170 170 to get it blocked straight away.
· Has your ID card been stolen? Call Doc Stop on 00800 2123 2123. Doc stop will block your eID (Belgian ID or residents’ card issued in Belgium).
· Has your phone been stolen? Tell your provider to block your SIM card.
· Any theft should be reported to the police and to the security staff that are on duty at the festival.