I hate this has to be a post, but with the loss of a life at Subtronics and many other stories being shared of drug use in the heat, I wanted to add my 2 cents on some things that happened.
If you are going to do drugs, please make sure you are with people who will watch over you. While it is your responsibility to use safely and know your limits, things happen that could result in needing a helping hand. On both days, my group ran into a situation where someone was tripping/having heat stroke and their friends ditched them. Luckily they joined our group and ended up having an amazing time. We also witnessed another situation where this woman was so beyond gone and her friend just watched her go up to strangers and get into sexual encounters with them. I don't know everyone's limits but if someone is so gone they can barely walk, then they definitely cannot consent. I get everyone wants to have a great time but ffs do not leave your friends when they are in a vulnerable state. Do not allow your friends to get into dangerous situations while under the influence. Shit, don't even leave a stranger in a vulnerable state.. It cost nothing to be a decent human being.
Y'all, the heat is deadly on its own already so please be cautious when mixing any drugs or alcohol into the equation. Stay hydrated, eat food, bring fans and cooling towels. Be around people who make you feel safe and make a plan incase anything were to happen. If you go to festivals alone and plan to do drugs, please talk to the people around you in a crowd. Don't be afraid to go to the medical tents or ask for help. I promise, nothing is more important than your life. You only get this one so please enjoy it responsibly.
As a community, we need to be better. While it isn't a person's sole responsibility to be the all mighty trip sitter for 2700 strangers, if you see something, say something. If you are with people, please have each other's backs. The bystander effect is honestly a stupid excuse to not get involved. One action can literally be the difference between someone's life and death.