Pill worry at Big Day Out

People planning to use herbal party pills to get them through tomorrow's Big Day Out are being warned to party in moderation.

In the week leading up to one of the country's biggest musical events, party pills have been marketed as one of the key essentials to get people through the long day, which often involves plenty of dancing in humid conditions.

But St John staff are warning partygoers of the dangers of overdoing the herbal pills, which are widely available in shops.

St John regional events manager Adam Johnston said staff at last year's Big Day Out noticed a sharp increase in serious collapses associated with the legal stimulants.

"Last year we treated five people who collapsed, four of them with seizures. In some cases these people had consumed up to 10 times the recommended dose before turning up at the event."

Because the pills have become more popular with young people in the past year, St John is preparing for more pill-related problems.

Mr Johnston said people needed to remember that the pills, with names such as Charge, Exodus and Frenzy, might be legal, but that did not mean they were safe - particularly in large quantities.

"People just need to ask themselves how 'twisted' do they really want to get.

"Twisted enough to need intensive care?"

Taking care

St John's safety tips

Cover up with sunblock and reapply it regularly throughout the day.

2 Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, particularly if you have been reasonably energetic during the day.

3 If you have been taking legal stimulants or alcohol, remember they can mask your body's normal warning signals. Take regular breaks and ask your friends to look out for you.

4 Don't exceed the maximum doses listed on the packets of party pills. Treat them like alcohol - too much can make you very sick.

5 If you are not feeling well, go straight to St John.

Getting there What you need to know:

Tickets: Last-minute tickets available from Real Groovy Records or at the gate for $120.

Transport: To the event - buses running regularly from Real Groovy Records until 2pm. From 9.30pm they will leave the event at Gate B and return passengers to the St James Theatre. Cost is $5 each way.

Weather: Fine sunny day with temperature in the low 20s.

Gates Open: 10am limited access, 11am full access to all events.

Where: Ericsson Stadium, Maurice Rd, Penrose.