The peak body for general practitioners has urged young music festival-goers not to "overindulge", and stay hydrated, as the festival circuit kicks off around the country.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With Southbound and Falls Festival already underway and Field Day coming up, the Australian Medical Association's president Dr Michael Gannon has urged music lovers to keep themselves and their friends safe.
Dr Gannon said there was a risk that the combination of hot weather and "a party atmosphere" could lead to trouble for some people, urging them to drink plenty of water and seek out shade at their preferred festival.
"We all love getting together with friends, listening to great music, and having some fun," he said.
"But sometimes, things can go wrong. It's easy to overindulge, overheat, or dehydrate."
Dr Gannon also warned all those heading out to party against taking illegal drugs and drinking too much alcohol, after a series of drug-related deaths at festivals last year.
"Drinking too much alcohol is never a good idea, and it can be particularly bad for your health if you're spending long hours standing in the sun on a hot day," he said.
"Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sensible footwear, and keep an eye on the weather. And keep an eye out for your friends, to make sure they are not putting themselves in harm's way."
