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Every year, 600,000 visitors from all over the globe flock to Munich for the world’s largest and most well-known beer fest … if you plan to attend Oktoberfest this year or have a friend who is, here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
1. Establish a meeting point.
It can be easy to find yourself lost and feeling overwhelmed in the throngs of tipsy fest-goers. Before you attend, decide on a time and place to meet your friends, and check in at several specific intervals throughout the day.
2. Pace yourself.
Since the stout beer comes served in one-liter steins, enjoy a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage and munch on tasty fest fare in between each drink to avoid overdoing it.
3. Keep an eye on your tankard.
Unfortunately, cases of drink spiking are seen at Oktoberfest each fall. Refrain from leaving your mug unattended, and be aware of the people you are surrounded by at all times.
4. Take a safe route back to your home or hotel.
Map out a secure path back to your house/hotel. Stick to well-lit, public areas, and travel in a group. Maintain vigilance at all times until you have made it safely inside.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
In the event of an emergency, or if you are feeling threatened or unsafe for any reason, please reach out to those around you for assistance. If you don’t feel comfortable asking a stranger for a helping hand, contact the police by dialing 110.
6. Learn these German phrases:
Hilfe! — Help!
Ich brauche die Polizei. — I need the police.
Lassen Sie mich in Ruhe. — Leave me alone.
Fassen Sie mich nicht an! — Don’t touch me!
Es ist ein Notfall. — It’s an emergency.
Ich habe mich verlaufen. — I got lost.
For more helpful German emergency phrases, read our article on StripesEurope.com.
