How DJs Can Be Prepared in Emergency Situations

“Here are three key insights that saved my gear, the event, and, most importantly, my life,” reveals Rachel Lynch.

By: Rachel Lynch

As DJs, we pride ourselves on our ability to roll with the punches. We’re masters of the unexpected, armed with backup gear, alternative music sources, battery banks, and an arsenal of extra cables and gadgets. We know the show must go on, and we’ll do everything in our power to deliver on what we’ve promised to our clients. But what happens when the unexpected strikes us personally?

On January 6th, I faced every DJ's worst nightmare: my vehicle was totaled by a careless driver who blew through a stop sign, just 20 minutes away from my event. In that heart-stopping moment, my world flipped upside down. Amid the chaos, I realized that my preparation extended beyond spare gear. Thanks to some thoughtful measures I had in place, I was able to minimize the impact of this horrible situation.

Here are three key insights that saved my gear, the event, and, most importantly, my life:

1. Turn on your crash/accident detection

Many people overlook the powerful technology in their phones and smartwatches. My Apple Watch, equipped with a data plan, activated its crash detection feature after my impact. It automatically called 911 and shared my location with my emergency contacts. Since the watch was strapped to my wrist, I had instant access to help without needing to search for my phone, which had been thrown during the crash. This life-saving feature, always within reach, can truly make the difference between life and death in critical moments. I’m so grateful I had this available in my time of need.

2. Add a DJ friend or colleague to your emergency contacts

A few years ago, I added a fellow DJ to my emergency contacts linked to phone’s crash detection. When the accident occurred, he received an immediate SOS alert with my location. When I didn’t answer his initial call, he texted to see if I was ok. When I replied “no,” he immediately sprang into action, contacting other local DJs, sending out my location, and working to arrange coverage for my event in case I couldn’t make it.

Within 90 seconds of my accident, he had mobilized help without me needing to facilitate anything. His quick response showed the power of thoughtful planning and reliable connections. Take the time to network and foster genuine relationships with people who will have your back—your event, or even your life, may depend on it one day.

3. Invest in high-quality cases for your equipment

Nobody wants to spend hundreds of dollars on flight cases and gear protection. It’s not the most exciting purchase, and, let’s be honest, it feels like money that could go toward something more fun. But trust me—when disaster strikes, you’ll wish you had. The forces in my accident were brutal. The back of my pickup truck looked like it had been tossed down a hill. Gear was thrown everywhere, and the impact was violent. I’m also grateful the equipment was in a separate contained area. Something else DJs should think about with their safety. I braced for the worst. But my equipment was packed in solid, well-built cases. Instead of a total loss, I walked away with only damage to a few things—and I was still able to perform at my event with my gear. A great case isn’t just a storage solution—it’s an insurance policy for your livelihood. Spend the money now, and it could save you from spending much more to replace broken gear later. Because in this business, the show must go on. And with the right protection, it will.

4.     Leave with enough time

This isn’t new advice, but it’s an important reminder of how crucial it is to leave with enough time built in for unexpected emergencies and issues. Not only was I able to DJ the event, but I also arrived on time and ready to perform as contracted with help from friends. By consistently building time buffers into my schedule, I can navigate the unexpected with confidence and ensure that I deliver on my commitments—no matter what challenges arise. Make sure you can travel safe and give yourself enough time to handle whatever is thrown your way.

While the wreck was devastating, it opened my eyes to the importance of preparation—not just for our equipment, but for ourselves. This experience was a harsh reminder of life’s unpredictability, but it also offered valuable lessons that every DJ should consider.

Photo: Jennifer Latham