Cumbria police’s drugs dogs are already on site at Kendal Calling ahead of the weekend.
With the help of the dogs, teams attending have been carrying out strategic sweeps of the grounds and surrounding areas.
In previous years, the sweeps have proved to assist in reducing drug related offences at events.
This year’s event will see both drugs and general-purpose dogs on site to help keep attendees safe and deter offending.
Festival organisers, security teams and other key agencies are also now on site, putting into fruition months of close partnership working which has focused on providing a safe and positive festival experience for revellers.
Inspector Kim Brown, public order and public safety bronze commander for Kendal Calling, said: “We are really pleased to support Kendal Calling’s return since 2019 and know how excited people are to be coming back and enjoying live music together.
“This year, much like years past, we have a fantastic team supporting the event including special constables, officers and our dog section.
“For anyone attending the festival for the first time or looking for festival safety advice, you can find information on Kendal Calling’s website, the Constabulary’s website, and festivalsafe.com. All of these sites have helpful practical information on areas such as personal safety and what to pack.
“I hope everyone has a safe, fun and enjoyable festival.”
Tips issued by the police for a safer festival include the following:
- Don’t take irreplaceable valuables on site
- Only bring drugs medically prescribed to you onto site and carry your prescriptions in case you are searched.
- If you see anything suspicious or feel uncomfortable on-site report it to an officer, event security or the event staff.
- Bring an old mobile phone and a charging pod – there are also charging bays on site.
- Do not leave your drinks unattended as a precaution.
- Arrange a rendezvous site each night with your friends, and make sure you all get back to your tents safely.
- Look out for one another
