SECURING AN EVENT

As large crowds gather together, especially in the warm summer months, there are two safety considerations that need to be at the forefront of the planning for the event. One is implementing a security plan capable of preventing and reacting to an intentional disturbance. The other is ensuring that all attendees are healthy and calm for the duration of the function.

Some simple procedures that significantly improve the safety of a gathering include only allowing clear bags and prohibiting opaque backpacks and large containers such as coolers that could be used to smuggle illegal or dangerous items into the event. If a proper access control doctrine is in place, security officers can be used to check the bags of entrants for contraband, which can both improve the peace of mind of event goers, as well as allowing the opportunity for more lenient contraband lists, which may make the event more attractive to potential customers.

The most valuable asset to improve safety is information. Making sure a crowd is well informed does more to prevent difficulties, especially a panic if an incident does take place, than any other measure. Maps with all points of interest like bathrooms and escape routes marked should be displayed, with a copy passed out to each attendee. With a combination of humanitarian considerations and proper security preparation, any event can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.