How to Stay Safe in a Stampede or Crowded Gathering – A Life-Saving Guide by Dr. Sridhar Devu

stampede and crowded gatherings

Large gatherings—be it religious events, political rallies, concerts, or festivals—can draw thousands, sometimes even lakhs, of people into a small area. When excitement turns into panic or movement becomes uncontrolled, crowd crushes or stampedes can happen in seconds. Sadly, these situations often escalate before help can arrive, and even well-trained security personnel may struggle to manage the chaos.

Dr. Sridhar Devu, an experienced Endovascular Interventional Radiologist with multiple international qualifications, shares critical advice on how to protect yourself during such life-threatening situations. These practical tips could make all the difference if you find yourself in an overwhelming crowd.

Why Stampedes Are So Dangerous

In a stampede, people don’t get hurt only by falling—they can be crushed simply by the sheer pressure of bodies moving in one direction. If a crowd of over one lakh people starts pushing in panic, no one—not even the police—can quickly restore order. That’s why personal awareness and quick thinking become your best defense.

If You’re in a Crowd, Remember These Safety Rules

1. Stay Away from Barriers

Avoid standing near walls, fences, railings, or barricades. These areas can become deadly traps during a stampede because they leave no room to escape the force of a crowd. Always try to stay near open spaces or exits when you sense the gathering is becoming too tight or chaotic.

2. Protect Your Balance – The "Boxing Stance"

The best way to maintain your balance is to stand firmly in what’s known as a boxing position. Keep your feet apart—roughly shoulder-width—to create a stable base. Bend your knees slightly, and hold your arms in front of your chest. This helps you stay upright and protects your vital organs if pressure increases.

3. Don’t Pick Up Anything

If you drop something, do not try to pick it up. Your safety is more important than any personal item. Bending down in a dense crowd increases your chances of getting knocked over.

What to Do If You Fall

Even if you’re cautious, there’s always a chance of being knocked down in a crowd surge. If it happens, follow this life-saving posture:

  • Lie on your side—not flat on your back or stomach.
  • Pull your knees toward your chest to protect your abdominal area.
  • Use one arm to shield your head, and the other to protect your chest.
  • Try to remain calm and avoid screaming, as it wastes energy and may cause panic in others.

This fetal-like position shields your most vital areas and can help prevent life-threatening injuries until the crowd thins out or help arrives.

Signs a Crowd is Becoming Dangerous

  • Sudden increase in body pressure from all directions.

  • People start to push or climb over each other.

  • Barriers shaking or swaying due to people pressing against them.

  • Difficulty in lifting your feet due to crowd density.

If you notice these signs, start moving diagonally toward the edges—not directly backward—to escape safely.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Sridhar Devu

Disaster doesn’t knock before it arrives. In crowded events, your first responsibility is to be alert and aware of your surroundings. If you get stuck in an uncontrollable situation, no one may be able to come and save you immediately. That’s why knowing how to react in those few seconds can be the key to survival.

Don’t rely entirely on security arrangements or assume someone else will protect you. Equip yourself with basic knowledge, trust your instincts, and remember these safety steps—they could save your life or the lives of those around you.