Many people assume that event security is done when you add security personnel to a venue. However, event security is a rather complex process and consists of extensive communication and planning. To learn what steps you need to take to protect your staff and guests, keep reading.
Know the Venue Like the Back of Your Hand
It is important that you know everything you can about the venue, including how people can get inside of the venue without using typical entry points. For instance, could someone open a window from the outside or use a back door that is typically reserved for staff members? Identify these areas, as well as other entry points, and ensure all security personnel are aware of them. Create perimeter boundaries for outdoor events, as well as temporary barricades, if necessary.
Identify Potential Risk of Guests
Think of the guests that will be attending the event. Are there any that could pose a potential threat? While it is impossible to perform a background check on all guests, it is possible to identify potential risks. For instance, the overall risk of your event may be heightened if you have a high-profile guest speaking at your event. If you have guests who purchase bulk tickets, this could be a sign that there will be a protest and disruption at your event, depending on the type of event you are holding.
Control the Crowd
The bigger the crowd that you have, the higher the chances are that something could potentially go wrong. Therefore, your security personnel needs to be comfortable with the management of large groups of people and exerting authority when necessary. Your security staff will need to ensure that guest are not blocking exits, maintain organized registration/entrance lines, and keep guests away from staff-only and VIP-reserved areas. In addition, it is important that the venue does not go beyond its capacity limit.
Maintain Tight and Consistent Communication
It is imperative that throughout the entire event that your security personnel remain in constant communication with one another as well as your own company staff. Any suspicious activity should be reported to supervising staff as well as the security team. No direct confrontations should ever be made by company staff, as this should b reserved for the security personnel who has experience dealing with these types of situations.
If you are holding an event in the foreseeable future, contact an event security company to learn more and ensure your event is safe and secure for all of those involved. Learn more about event security in Alaska today.