Guide · updated November 2026
How many first aiders does my event need?
There's no single national number. Cover is scaled to crowd size and risk, and some councils and state health departments publish their own guidelines.
A practical planning guide
| Peak crowd | Typical starting point |
|---|---|
| Up to 500 | At least 2 qualified first aiders, first aid kit and AED |
| 500 – 2,000 | Staffed first aid post with 2–4 first aiders plus roving cover; consider an event first aid provider |
| 2,000 – 5,000 | Event first aid provider with a post, roving teams and AEDs; notify the ambulance service |
| 5,000+ | Medical plan by an event health provider, including paramedics; consult the ambulance service |
Move up a level for alcohol, heat, music crowds, sport or water activities. St John Ambulance's long-standing rule of thumb for low-risk events is about one first aider per 2,000 attendees, but most community events need more than that minimum.
Don't forget
- AED location known to every staff member
- A clear ambulance access route and meeting point
- Shade, water and cooling at the first aid post
- A treatment register
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Build my event plan What's includedRelated: Event management plan: what to include (with a template) · Event risk management plan: matrix, register and example risks · Emergency management plan for events · School fete risk assessment · Jumping castle and inflatable risk assessment · Fun run and charity walk risk assessment