"Preparing for potential disasters at Pokemon GO Fest"

#PokemonGO: With all the people going to Pokemon GO Fest, it's important to consider what risks could make it a less than enjoyable experience. While not exhaustive, here's some potential scenarios I can imagine and what Niantic and players should do to be prepared:Mobile Network FailureThis has been talked about many times. Niantic should have the sense to upgrade the mobile internet infrastructure and secure deals with the major mobile carriers since the Wi-Fi in the park is only designed for a max of 2,000 concurrent connections. As a player, there are several ways to prepare for mobile network failure:know how to change your phone from 4G to 3G in the case that 4G frequencies get overburdeneddownload non-network apps like FireChat to communicate with friends within Grant Park to ease the burden on mobile infrastructuretravel with friends using different mobile carriers so that if one carrier fails, you can use the Wi-Fi of your friend's carrier network to play the gameServers are DownNiantic's Pokemon GO servers and PTC seem likely candidates for failure. If it does go down, don't pester the staff about it because Niantic should be monitoring the situation and 10,000 people asking the same question will distract the staff from fixing the problem.RainWeather forecast says it may rain in Chicago. Niantic isn't the Chinese government so they don't have a capability to stop a rainstorm from hitting the event. Bring a coat or poncho since umbrellas are NOT allowed according to this page. Also bring a ziplock bag or some other method keep your phone dry while playing.Food shortageHopefully, Niantic or the city of Chicago has authorized food trucks or some extra food to be near the location. Outside food and drink (other than water) are not allowed. Be prepared for long lines, slower service and delays getting in/out of the park if you plan to eat. Eat a bigger breakfast and plan to avoid a lunch rush.Dehydration/Medical EmergencyFor events of this size, there should be some type of medical staff ready for potential medical emergencies. With this many hours walking around, dehydration is a real possibility to make sure to bring water. Niantic says there will be water filling stations but I personally think bringing your own 2 factory sealed bottles of water is the better way to go. Take breaks and don't push yourself too hard. Also remember to apply sunscreen, especially if it doesn't rain.TLDR Hopefully nothing bad will happen, but be prepared if you are going to Pokemon GO Fest.Bonus tip: You would need 2.4A output power bank to charge most smartphones when the screen is on full brightness. Your standard cheap ones may not have the capacity to last a full day. via /r/TheSilphRoad http://ift.tt/2uxvC6T