A mass casualty event was declared at the Tacos and Tequila Festival in Colorado Springs on Saturday (August 8) after 72 people reported heat-related illness amid temperatures reaching 36C. Eight people suffered from critical heat illnesses simultaneously, overwhelming first responders and requiring additional emergency services to be called in.
Emergency Response and Hospitalizations
The Colorado Springs Fire Department declared the mass casualty event at the festival, which was headlined by rapper TI. Seven attendees were taken to the hospital. At one point, firefighters reported eight people suffering from critical levels of heat illness, with extra resources called in as first responders were overwhelmed by the number of people needing medical attention.
Attendee Complaints and Social Media Reaction
Attendees took to social media to slam the conditions at the venue, citing insufficient bathrooms, shaded areas, and access to water. Some claimed that water fountains at the park were intentionally shut off. One user said: “The venue wouldn’t let anyone in with water, they cut the water off AND ran out of water to sell by 4pm! They went to Costco and bought pallets of Kirkland water and rationed them out to people for $4 a bottle. It was so messed up. I stood in line for an hour just to get water and almost passed out myself. People were dropping like flies. The artists didn’t say anything.” Another added: “Well don’t turn off the water if you don’t want people passing out.” A third commented: “Everyone thinks it was alcohol but that festival did not set up for people in that heat. No water fountains, water out of the one women’s bathroom had hot water in the facets only. Sold out of water wouldn’t give out cups of ice unless you bought alcohol. Wouldn’t let you bring in water. No water refilling stations. The lack of water for people was terrible.”
Event Organizer Response
In a statement, event management company Social House Entertainment refuted claims made by attendees and first responders. Vice President Michelle Sanders said: “The health and safety of our guests is always a top priority. Given the extreme heat in Colorado Springs this weekend, our team took the conditions very seriously... water was widely available throughout the festival, including for purchase at all 20 food vendors, bars and concession locations. Guests had access to the venue’s concourse for substantial shade coverage.” She added: “We’re looking closely at what more we can do to reinforce responsible hydration and alcohol consumption, particularly when an outdoor event coincides with extreme heat.”
