Burning Man is an alien environment for most humans; be aware of your surroundings. This isn’t an amusement park ride: be responsible for your own safety.

Of course you will want to take good care of yourself. You want to feel good so that you can have fun.

Your body and mind will get a work-out on the playa. Pause,  inhale deeply, stretch, and look around.

Appreciate who you are and where you are; stay healthy by eating well, getting enough rest and quiet time. Have a good time, explore, and always use good judgment.

A good attitude is the basic foundation of a healthy burning experience. Pick out your best attitude and install it before you get to the playa.

Eat healthy food that you know makes you ‘feel good’. The playa is not a good time to experiment with unfamiliar food.

If you are tired, rest. Have you been drinking enough water? Grouchiness is a sign of dehydration.

Encourage responsible behavior in others by setting a good example. Be alert. It’s much better to pay attention than to pick up the pieces later.

Get a good, bright bike light so you can see where you are going. Wear goggles that allow peripheral vision. Always, always wear lights on your body at night: this will help to avoid collisions with bikes and art cars.

Be prepared to care for your own minor medical needs. Bring a small first aid kit. Give prompt attention to any cuts, blisters, scrapes or slivers. A minor injury can turn into a big problem if it gets infected.

Wear heavy work gloves when unloading lumber and erecting your shelter. The alkaline dust is hard on your skin.

Use the medical facilities at Burning Man for problems that need professional attention.

Take your Playa Survival Pack with you wherever you go. Be prepared for fun!

Unfortunately, another consideration at Burning Man is prevention of crime. Protect yourself and your belongings. Keep valuables locked up in your vehicle and out of sight.

Thieves target bikes, cameras, etc, and have been known to raid empty camps while everyone is out watching the burns. Consider leaving someone in camp on ‘patrol’ on the nights of the larger burns.

Relationships can get a workout on the playa. Be patient with yourself and others. Forgive harsh words. Offer understanding and affection to those around you. If you are feeling grouchy, give yourself a ‘time out’: rest, drink some water. It’s hard to ‘take back’ mean-spirited words, and we all know how much words can hurt. Spread good energy instead. Remember what’s important.