Ahead of Glastonbury festival and Pride events, a sobering warning has been issued regarding the circulation of super-potent ecstasy pills, carrying dangerously high levels of MDMA in the UK. Harm reduction non-profit organisation The Loop made the claim after recent tests revealed some recent batches of ecstasy pills contain over 300mg of MDMA, indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels of potency.

While the safest advice would be to steer clear of all substances, it’s time we stop pretending drug use isn’t common practice – a recent report found that up to 87 per cent of festival attendees have tried illegal drugs in their lifetime. Annoyingly, though, UK festivals are now facing stricter drug testing policies. Previously, organisations like The Loop provided on-site back-of-house drug testing, offering vital harm reduction services. New regulations have now introduced additional hurdles, criticised as setbacks for harm reduction efforts.

“Harm reduction is a pragmatic response to people taking drugs. Given we know some people are going to take drugs, we put measures in place to reduce risks for them,” says Adam Waugh, co-founder and Director of PsyAware and senior team member and training coordinator at The Loop. It‘s a shame, he adds, because “festivals are a great opportunity to engage young people with harm reduction, who otherwise may not talk about their drug use... Young people often want to talk about drugs, if you give them the chance.”

So whether you’re partying to Shygirl, SZA or Shania Twain, here’s how to keep safe this summer when you’re bumping that. 

KNOW YOUR SUBSTANCES

Understanding what you’re about to take is crucial – you need to know your C from your K and your uppers from your downers. Label your bags and separate your pills accordingly. Consider the right drug for the environment: do you really want to be rolling at Mitski, or feeling mellow while Brutalismus 3000 spins 160bpm tracks?

It’s also vital to understand how your substance interacts with other drugs, including alcohol and prescription medications. Being aware of potential side effects helps you stay mindful and aware of any adverse effects. 

TEST YOUR DRUGS

At some festivals, there’s one tent that is unlike the rest. Rather than being dabbed into spongy pink gums or bombed in twisted Rizlas, in the drug testing tent, the crushed contents of baggies are meticulously upturned, weighed and analysed. 

Services like The Loop offer Multi-Agency Safety Testing (MAST), the most accurate form of testing available. As well as knowing what exactly is in your drugs, you’ll also know how much of a given substance is in them. This is a significant bit of information because it can inform your decision of how much to take. If harm reduction services aren’t available, consider using your own reagent kits. Although considerably less precise, any information on what you’re taking is better than nothing.

FIND THE WELFARE TENT – BEFORE YOU NEED IT

With their ambient lighting, beanbags, earplugs and trained staff, welfare tents are sanctuaries. “If you experience a bad or unexpected reaction to a drug at a festival, head straight to the welfare tent,” says Waugh. It’s best to scout these out before you need them, but you can always scout out someone in high-vis or uniform for help if required.

“Festivals are marathons, not sprints. Days of drug taking, drinking, dehydration and disrupted sleep can take its toll” – Adam Waugh

DON’T FORGET TO DRINK AND EAT

Navigating the queues for tap water can be challenging, but it’s essential. Consider investing in that £3 bottle if needed. At the same time, while regular hydration is crucial, be cautious of overhydration, particularly with substances that heighten thirst such as MDMA or stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines.

Plus, although some drugs, such as stimulants like speed and cocaine, may suppress appetite, it’s essential to stay fueled with those greasy festival fries to maintain energy levels during the festival.

STAY CLOSE TO YOUR FRIENDS

Although the most serious risk associated with taking drugs at festivals is taking too much or a dangerous combination and accidentally overdosing, there are other dangers too. Listen to your body – know when you’re reaching your limit, feeling unwell, or experiencing unusual sensations. 

“Drugs can make you vulnerable, and sometimes people are harmed by others while intoxicated,” adds Waugh. Try to stay in a group and keep an eye on your friends.

PACE YOURSELF

Campaigns such as #TakeQuarterSipWater and #SizeMatters are being championed by the Loop, bringing attention to the potency of pills in circulation. Bigger pills often indicate higher strength and the need for extra caution, but you can never be too sure. Start low, go slow. “Festivals are marathons, not sprints. Days of drug taking, drinking, dehydration and disrupted sleep can take its toll on you. Look after yourself, and look after your friends as well,” Waugh suggests.

For the horse girls out there, go easy on those keys. “The most common festival drug mishap is the accidental K hole,” Waugh says. “I would say more than 80 per cent of incidents the medics deal with where someone is ‘unconscious’ is really someone K-holing on the dance floor.”