ON PARTYING
1.RUBBISH
Put up simple signs informing party goers to remove rubbish as they leave and put it into bags. It is the sound system’s responsibility to leave an area clean if not cleaner than when the party started. To the system crews; it is your job to educate your punters. We must show the standard we have.
2.VANDALISM, TROUBLE MAKERS etc.
Some things that vandals do and which have gone on are now no longer excusable. It seems that certain people or groups of people are continually doing these things. It is up to everyone to deal with these individuals. Get as many people as possible to politely say Pack it in, it’s not wanted. Try to make them feel small, and educate them. A small group of people, be it punters or organisers makes it quite clear that if trouble is not stopped, the individuals will be asked to leave and barred from future events. Organisers must co-ordinate with each other within the regions to stop these people gaining access to future events. Our events have always been free and open to everyone but these people are ruining it for all of us. Something must be done. When dealing with trouble makers go in a small number, 3 or 4, NOT for the purpose of being mob handed but to show unity.
3.REMOVAL OF OFFENDERS
We don’t like violence but if certain individuals still chose to be arseholes they must be removed. The best non-violent way I know is for 4 or 5 people to surround the person by standing round so the cannot lash out and all fast-shuffle off to the nearest exit. MAKE it clear why this action is being taken. STOP THE MUSIC – This way you have the full attention of everyone. Inform the punters that the music is not going back on until the individual or individuals are out. The people are there to party and will usually do the best for you once they realise what the problem us.
4.PARKING
Vehicles must be kept off the road or if in an urban area someone from the sound system must make sure the road is kept clear. Tell people why we must do this. Once a few people start doing this the rest will follow. Blocked roads tell the police two things: It tells them something is going on, It gives them a valid reason for attempting to stop the party. Their reason: The emergency services need access DO NOT LET THEM HAVE THIS EASY REASON AGAINST YOUR CREW!
5.DEALING WITH POLICE / AUTHORITIES
This lovely tasks falls to the sound system or organisers (because the police target them). Therefore have ONE person to deal with any police that turn up. This person should know the laws that the police claim they are there to enforce, and the various blags they try to use. This person should also be able to speak to a lawyer or solicitor by mobile phone to obtain legal advice when police are present (most useful to avoid arrests) and give more bargaining power. Remember: Mobiles are listened into by the police, and are taped at the exchange. Steps must be taken to avoid conflict, with ourselves / well meaning punters telling the police where to go and where to put it when they get there. Conduct negotiations away from the main body of people. Alternatively, conduct negotiations in front of the microphone for the whole crowd. The negotiator must be able to communicate to the system about what is going on. Someone must have the one and only say about noise levels and termination of sound. (Control of the volume knob) it is important to realise that The Authorities force power from the system and party to one individual, which is unpleasant. If the rig has to be shut down then this person can switch it back on, if the authorities permit. If the party is shut down inform the punters why and ask them to leave quietly and with respect to the people around (Police, Landowners). Meanwhile the negotiator is the only point of contact for any authorities turning up. Remember: Police will use your internal communication to stiff you. Be careful and keep safe.
THE ADVANCE PARTY IS TO HAVE A LIST OF LEGAL OBSERVERS PREPARED TO MONITOR THE POLICE FOR LARGER FESTIVALS AND EVENTS. IN YOUR LOCAL AREA APPROACH FRIENDLY SOLICITORS.
Remember: Police use plant lawyers to stiff you. Be careful and be safe.
6.HEALTH AND SAFETY
Sound systems must have FULL first aid kits on hand together with the number of local casualty department Hospital and route map of how to get there. One car must be ready with driver to make the journey if needed. One person should be trained in first aid. A free supply of water should be made available wherever possible. Fire extinguishers should be placed near equipment and system people should know where they are and how to use them. Clear broken glass, debris etc. away to avoid accidents. Educate people where to go i.e. toilets, shovels, longdrops etc. keep all entrances clear of people equipment etc. All wires should be trailed above head height where possible, and all gangways kept clear with exits free. Authorities will be informed of these measures if they turn up. All backdrops, netting and tarps etc. must be fireguarded.
