How to survive a Zombie Pub Crawl

In 2005, 150 "un-dead" souls wandered the streets of Northeast Minneapolis in what was billed as the very first Zombie Pub Crawl. In the Twin Cities in 2014, more than 25,000 reanimated human corpses set a record certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the "World's Largest Gathering of Zombies."

This year the tradition will live on when thousands upon thousands of walking dead will be on both sides of the river for a night of pub crawling, dancing and live music. So what's a Zombie to do to ensure he or she doesn't end up in the back of an ambulance?

• Your mom may have told you to wear clean underwear, but most paramedics don't really care about that. It's more important to be prepared and plan ahead for the conditions. Cover up if it's going to be a cold crawl.
• Speaking of cold, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and law enforcement personnel often really do look for "ICE," or In Case of Emergency, entries on cell phones. It's an easy way to help others connect with your loved ones if you are not able to do so. Simply program the letters "ICE" in front of your emergency contact's name. If your phone is password-protected, there are apps that allow access to ICE information. Learn more in the post Use I.C.E. to save a life.
• Crowds can make it difficult for EMS responders to gain access to ill or injured persons, and oftentimes callers to 911 can't provide specific information about their exact location. If you have to call 911, look for landmarks to be as clear as you can about where you are located.
• Lots could be said about alcohol, but here again common sense prevails. Most EMS providers will tell you that requests for service after dark in public places nearly always involve alcohol or drugs. Figure out your own methods to manage your alcohol consumption, such as setting limits. Tell your friends your plans, and stay clear of others who may seem impaired.
• Situational awareness is perhaps the single-most important aspect of safety in crowds. This means paying attention to your surroundings. Watch for things like too many revelers standing on that old wooden deck, people you don't know following too closely, or threatening weather. Be aware of your exits and never allow yourself to be forced into a space with no way out.

Finally, be assured there are people out there in public safety roles who are prepared to help you if needed. The Zombie Pub Crawl is a safe event because others have been planning how to keep you safe. But you have a role too. Do your part, and keep those monsters at bay.