5-Minute Seat Safety Check

Regardless of the venue, here is a quick safety check that I like to do right when I sit down at a concert.

First thing I like to do is double check the ticket number with the section and seat number to make sure I am in the right seat. It is awful trying to find your new seat in the dark once the show has started.

Before I sit down, I like to do a quick visual check of my seat and the concert space around me. Am I about to sit in gum? Is the seat broken? Is there anything near or on my seat that I should be suspicious about?

Next, I like to identify the closest exits, even if I am in a balcony seat. I also like to try to make a mental map to the exit. If I had to get out of the would I know the way?

Then I like to identify the closest security guard. You can find Concert security guards at each row or section door, floor and balcony entries, and posted around the stage. I like to know where the security guards are in case something suspicious arises.

I then like to check out the people around me. Or who I like to call my “Seat Mates.” Are they closer to my age? Older? Younger? With someone or alone? Do they have young children? Do they seem rowdy or at risk of being an out-of-control fan? Are they shady or do they seem friendly? You did not need to interact with your Seat Mate at a concert, but it a good idea to know who is around you. The people around you can also influence your concert experience in both a positive way or a negative way, so keep a close eye out.

These simple checks can take all of 5 minutes, but could have a huge impact on the whole of your concert experience.