Police Warn Festivalgoers as Smartwatches Trigger False Emergency Calls at Download Festival

Leicestershire Police have issued a warning to attendees of the Download Festival at Donington Park, urging them to switch their wearable tech into airplane mode before entering mosh pits. The three-day rock music event, expected to attract around 75,000 fans and headlined by Green Day, Sleep Token, and Korn, has historically led to a sharp spike in emergency calls. While a typical weekend sees about 600 calls to 999 and 800 to 101, police say that figure can surge by nearly 700 during the festival. The increase is largely attributed to smartwatches and other wearable devices misinterpreting the intense physical activity in mosh pits as a sign of a car crash or collision. Each accidental call must still be taken seriously, requiring follow-up attempts by emergency call handlers to verify that the caller is safe. This process diverts vital resources away from genuine emergencies. Authorities are also encouraging anyone who accidentally dials 999 to stay on the line and confirm their safety. The festival officially began after campsite gates opened Wednesday. Organizers and police are working together to ensure a safe and efficient weekend for fans and emergency services alike.