St John Ambulance NSW is encouraging festival-goers to be prepared for long and hot days during this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival.

St John volunteers from Tamworth, Armidale, Tweed Valley, the Mid North Coast, Manning Lakes and Sydney will all come together to provide first aid and event health services until 10pm every day of the festival.

They will be equipped across posts at Bicentennial Park, Peel Street and the Tamworth Entertainment Centre.

Peter Cameron, Event Commander from St John (NSW), is encouraging everyone attending the festival to stay well hydrated and be sun safe during the ten-day event. “We’re really stressing the importance of staying hydrated by drinking lots of water and using adequate sun protection,” said Mr Cameron.

“Our volunteers are trained to deal with emergencies as they arise, however preventative measures are key to a safe and enjoyable festival for everyone.”

St John offers the following tips for those attending the festival:

• Stay well hydrated: Drink plenty of water, particularly if consuming alcohol.

• Protect yourself from the sun: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Take time out to rest in the shade during the day.

• Carry necessary medication: Make sure your medication, like Asthma puffers or EpiPens, are easily accessible.

• Seek help: If you feel sick or get injured, make sure to approach St John volunteers St John has provided voluntary service to the Tamworth Country Music Festival for many years,with 20 St John volunteers attending every day from around NSW to assist at this iconic event.

For more information about St John, please visit www.stjohnnsw.com.au or call 1300 360 455.