Daily Herald opinion: Take precautions if you are heading to Lollapalooza this weekend

This editorial is a consensus opinion of the Daily Herald Editorial Board.

Suburbanites tend to greet the Lollapalooza weekend hoopla in one of two ways.

Music fans are thrilled by the chance to see Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Red Hot Chili Peppers and other popular acts in a vast party-like atmosphere unmatched by suburban fests.

The rest, however, view the four-day music blowout that began Thursday as a reason to steer clear of Chicago and all the traffic, noise and headaches Lollapalooza brings with it.

Yet Lolla stories - coupled this week with a big announcement of major renovation plans at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium - remind those of us in the suburbs of our unique relationship to the city. From our suburban homes, we are a short (OK, not always short) ride away from world-class museums, exceptional theater, nationally known comedy venues, major sporting events and big-ticket concerts.

We may grouse about the hassles of getting to the city. (Construction has turned the Kennedy Expressway into a nightmare.)

We lament the costs. (Parking can be pricey.)

We also worry about the violence that has become a tragic part of Chicago's reputation and complex legacy. (It's horrifying.)

But many of us are still grateful for the opportunities proximity to Chicago provides. And we have a responsibility to not add to the problems when we head there for a festival or anything else.

There are ways to minimize the risk and maximize the joy of an event such as Lollapalooza, as our staff writer Barbara Vitello pointed out in tips from organizers and fest veterans Thursday.

They are worth reading - and heeding.

First, if you are going to Lollapalooza or other Chicago events, use public transit when possible. Keeping cars off the roads is better for your sanity and the environment.

Remember that crowds can breed crime, so keep your wallet and cellphone in a zippered pocket. Limit what you carry.

Have emergency contact information with you and on your phone lock screen.

Designate a place to meet if you get separated from friends or family or the park is evacuated because of weather.

Know the rules. You can't bring in massive backpacks, alcohol, filled water bottles, chairs, coolers and a host of other items. Don't bother trying.

If you overindulge, find a safe way home and don't add vandalism and disorderly conduct to the headache you might wake up with in the morning.

Have fun, stay safe and remember to respect the city. It's there for all of us.