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Staying Safe at Conventions This Star Wars Day |
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Resident, May the Force (and some good common-sense safety) be with you. As fans across the region prepare to celebrate Star Wars Day — whether you’re a Padawan, Jedi Master, Sith Lord or devoted droid builder — we want you to enjoy your convention experience safely. Big events bring excitement, costumes and community… but large crowds can also present risks. So before you jump to lightspeed and head out the door, here’s some guidance from West Midlands Police to help keep you safe — no Jedi mind tricks required.
✅ Plan Ahead — Don’t Fly Solo Even the best pilots plan their route before jumping into hyperspace. Check your travel options. Know how you’re getting to and from the venue, especially late at night. Arrive early. Security checks can take time — even for those not smuggling spice in their backpacks. Keep your comms open. Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return to base.
🎒 Protect Your Belongings — Guard Them Like the Death Star Plans Crowded venues can be prime territory for opportunistic thieves — and they don’t need a thermal exhaust port to strike. Carry only essentials. Keep bags zipped and close to your body. Keep valuables hidden. Avoid displaying expensive tech or merch. Never leave items unattended. Even a quick detour to the cantina could give someone the chance to make off with your gear.
👥 Stick With Your Squad — Rebel Alliances Save the Day Even Luke needed his friends. Stay with your group. If you get separated, arrange a meeting point. Look out for one another. If something feels off, trust your instincts — they’re better than most people's Force sensitivity. Don’t carry bags for strangers. You never know if they’re a friendly astromech or a disguised stormtrooper.
🔊 Stay Aware — Know Your Exits Faster Than an Escape Pod Launch Every good Jedi surveys their surroundings. Check where the exits, first aid points and help desks are. If there’s an emergency, follow staff instructions. No need for heroics worthy of the Battle of Yavin. If you see something suspicious, report it immediately. You won’t be sent to the Sarlacc for speaking up.
🛡️ Respect Others — Don’t Let the Dark Side Take Over The fandom is for everyone, from Ewoks to Imperial officers. Be kind and respectful. Cosplay is not consent. If you feel uncomfortable, seek help. Security and staff are there to support you faster than a hyperdrive malfunction.
⭐ A Final Holocron Message from West Midlands Police We want you to enjoy Star Wars Day safely — whether you're duelling with lightsabers, hunting rare merch, or just soaking up the atmosphere. Remember: if something doesn’t feel right, report it. In an emergency, always call 999. For non-emergencies, you can reach us on 101 or via our online services. Stay safe, have fun, and May the Force be with you — always.
Please share this on Social Media and continue to look out for further updates from the team on our X (formerly twitter) page @WolvesPolice
Any concerns with regards to reporting Hate Crimes, please follow this link. ⚠WMNow is not suitable for reporting crimes ⚠ 101, Online Webchat & WMP Website – Non emergency crime reporting / check on the progress of your report | ||||
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