If you’re considering holding a large event, your mind is probably racing with details about food, entertainment, and a venue. But something pretty integral is missing from that list.
That missing feature, event security, is perhaps the most important of all. Without proper event security personnel present, you run the risk of any number of crimes or tragedies cutting your fantastic event short.
Keep your event on track and your guests safe with this guide to minimizing dangers with event security.
Assess Possible Risks
Before you send out those invitations or put out a press release, make sure you’ve considered all possible dangers that could occur at your event — no matter how small the chances of an incident are, as guests deserve a safe and fun experience.
You’ll want to focus on two general features: Your attendees and the venue itself.
Understanding event attendees can help you determine how many security officers you’ll need, as well as what types of barriers you’ll want to have on hand. For instance, you’re not going to need as much security at a Celine Dion concert as you would at a Slayer show.
The venue itself also matters, of course. Check for lesser-known areas where uninvited guests could sneak into your event.
You’ll also want to look into your venue’s rules about alcohol. Sometimes it’s better to cut off sales early to decrease the chances of an incident.
Create An Event Map To Better Assign Event Security
Once you and your team have a clear picture of the venue, including its capacity, exits, and entrances, you’ll want to create a patrol route for your security personnel.
Though the exact patrol route is going to depend heavily on venue capacity and the type of event you’re hosting, it’s always a good idea have security in certain areas, such as entrances, exits, and near bathrooms, close to merchandise and food stands, and near the front of the event’s focal point (stage, for instance).
While it’s a good idea to have some personnel remain at their posts, you’ll also want to have a few even security guards walking around the event grounds.
Decide What Items Will And Won’t Be Allowed Into Your Event
Determining what is and isn’t allowed in your event can mean the difference between an injured attendee and a safe, fun event.
Some items, such as bladed weapons and firearms, should obviously not be allowed in the venue.
But then you have more complicated items such as backpacks, bags, purses, and umbrellas. These items are often innocuous enough on their own but can be used to smuggle in illegal substances or weapons. Allowing admission of clear bags is a great middle-ground that’ll make both attendees and security happy.
Host A Pre-Event Meeting With Your Security Team
Finally, hold a mandatory security meeting with your team a few hours before doors open. Think of this meeting like a debriefing of sorts.
During your get-together, you’ll assign security posts, let staff know about prohibited items, and tell your team what they can expect from attendees.
A great security plan is only as effective as your communication, after all.
These Event Safety Tips Will Keep Guests Happy And Safe
The importance of event safety cannot be overstated. And by following this guide is a great way to prevent any injuries or incidents and ensure that your guests have a time they won’t soon forget!
If you’re interested in hosting an event, make sure you have the proper security protocols in place. Get in touch with us Lolair Protection and let us keep you and your guests safe.