5 Event Security Tips to Keep Your Attendees Safe
Events are typically high energy endeavors that leave attendees with a favorable impression of a company or a brand. While preparing for an event, planners may be tempted to focus solely on the entertainment aspects or the attendee experience. However, recent disasters in the news prove that it is equally vital to plan for event security.
From corporate gatherings to outdoor festivals, incorporate these tips into your security plans to keep your event goers safe.
1. Conduct a Risk Assessment
Conducting a risk assessment in the early planning stages of the event allows you to make sure you choose the right security posture. Rating an event from low to high risk can help you further evaluate the specific vulnerabilities of your venue.
For example, many politicians and prominent public figures commonly choose indoor arenas because outdoor areas may pose greater security risks. Other factors to consider are the media and potential protestors.
If the media is present at a political event, there may be an increased likelihood for protestors which could increase the chance for disagreements, demonstrations, or even violence. Combative crowds of protestors can pose a greater security risk and may require additional officers to protect your event.
2. Communicate Carefully With Participants
Consider how you will communicate event information with your attendees. Large companies with potential adversaries should avoid publicly announcing a private event on the company website or via newsletter as this could alert unwelcome miscreants who may attempt to disturb the gathering.
Another communication consideration is data security, especially if your event offers free Wi-Fi. With the upsurge of cyber attacks, protecting event goers data from nefarious hackers is vital.
Avoid announcing password information or posting it publicly. Instead, discretely share the guest Wi-Fi login information using your event registration portal or app to make sure only trusted persons gain access to it. Additionally, be sure the venue is using the latest security protocol and that the network uses software to isolate users and prevent them from accessing other devices on the network.
3. Create an Incident Response Plan
After your team has assessed potential risk, mitigate that risk by putting a response plan in place. Discuss with your event security service and venue staff the proper evacuation routes. Also, decide how you will communicate with each other during the event.
Outline the designated safe areas and evacuation routes in advance, and brief key personnel before the event so that they are prepared and able to react safely in accordance with the security plan.
4. Collect Information Up Front
The principle of access control applies in venue security. You wouldn't let anyone walk around anywhere they wanted in your company without knowing who they are, likewise, you also want to identify everyone attending your event.
Have event goers register online to attend your event and then have security check everyone's photo identification upon entry. Use scannable wristbands that contain identification information to prevent fraud and to identify guests for added security. Eliminating anonymity means that event goers will be held accountable and identified if they act unlawfully.
5. Hire Event Security
Event goers generally come to a venue to relax and may be caught off guard if a disaster strikes. Trained security officers stay alert and vigilant and can direct patrons to safety in the event of an emergency.
Discuss your concerns with an experienced event security service early on so that you can plan for the appropriate level of security for your event. Event security may consist of a mixture of uniformed and undercover officers. The larger the event, the greater the need for security officers in and around the arena.
Contact Security Services Northwest, Inc. today to implement a custom security plan based on your unique needs. Our trained licensed officers will manage access control and handle incident response for you to make sure your event operates as smoothly and safely as possible.
