Event security is one of the most important elements of any event, whether it’s a small private gathering or a massive public spectacle. In addition to providing a sense of security that comes with knowing a security person is present, security personnel are often very actively involved in crowd control and flow, guests with needs and answering questions, and responding to incidents occurring during the event. Their responsibilities far exceed the general job of watching crowds. They perform specific tasks that ensure everything runs right in every aspect of your event.
Here’s an in-depth look at how event security upholds safety measures at your event.
Custom Security Plans
The first step in securing any event involves creating a custom security plan. It is tailored to the size and location of the event and covers its unique risks. For instance, a music festival in an open field has different security needs than a corporate conference in a hotel ballroom.
In this regard, the security teams conduct a comprehensive risk assessment in preparation for the event by identifying potential threats and determining what level of security will be required. Such plans are made based on the nature of the expected attendees, whether the general public, VIPs, or special guests, who may demand additional protection or escort services.
Entry and Exit Points Management
Controlling entry and exit points effectively controls the people who gain access. This is why security guards are placed at every entry and exit point to check bags, scan tickets, and verify credentials.
Events with both VIPs and non-VIPs have security teams create different ways into the event site so that all VIP guests smoothly reach their destination without any hassle while restricted areas are not accessed without due course.
For such a prestigious awards night, there should ideally be an entrance reserved exclusively for the VIPs, wherein security is tighter simply because the celebrities and dignitaries would arrive discreetly to avoid confrontation with members of the general public or even the media. Of course, non-VIPs are led to another entrance where security procedures are less elaborate yet strict in maintaining general safety.
Assisting Attendees: Directions and Special Needs
Security guards assist attendees in finding their way into the venue, such as how to reach their seats, restrooms, or food stations. Some large venues pose a challenge to attendees seeking to find their way around them.
The event security personnel are trained to give clear and precise directions to facilitate the smooth flow of people without congestion.
Besides this, security is often tasked with special needs support. This involves a disabled patron trying to find an accessible path to and from their seats for comfort and safety for that patron.
Whether escorting a patron with mobility challenges or helping an aging patron to their seat, security personnel play a critical role in making the event accessible and enjoyable.
Crowd Control and Maintenance of Safe Distances
Crowd control is one of the primary responsibilities of event security. If large gatherings are not appropriately managed, the situation might aggravate further and potentially adversely affect safety.
The training imparted to the security personnel assists them in monitoring the crowd for any signs of unrest or overcrowding and taking immediate remedial measures before any incident occurs.
For example, concerts and performances need a safe distance between the stage and the audience. Security guards protect the site and maintain barriers to control people’s mobility, ensure that performers get enough space to perform safely, and ensure that the audience watches the show without any disturbance.
When energy and activities are high, such as at a music festival, security may utilize barricades or controlled access to an area to maintain a safe distance.
Securing the Stage and Performance Areas
The stage is considered one of any program’s most important places, especially with live performances. Security personnel keep people from getting near the stage who should not enter.
They ensure no one trespasses into restricted areas. Besides, they keep the area free of accidents, such as loose wires or equipment falling on performers or crew members.
For instance, at a concert, security personnel are deployed on or around the stage to deter volatile fans from stage rushes and to prevent any meddling with the set-up. They are also involved in escorting performers on and off the stage and ensuring their security during the entire event.
Response to Emergency and Crisis
Even with the best-laid plans, emergencies do still occur. Event security teams are there to respond promptly and with utmost efficacy, be it a medical emergency, a fire, or some unforeseen threat to security.
Often, they consist of a first-order emergency response where direct assistance is provided to the people in immediate need while working with local emergency services.
For example, if the fire alarms were to go off during any event, the security guards would guide the attendees calmly toward the nearest exits. Their training in crisis management allows them not to create panic, reducing the chances of injury or chaos.
Post-Event Security Measures
Security duties do not end when the event ends. Security post-event is as important as it is during the event. Security teams after the event ensure all attendees have left the venue, organize traffic flow, and restrict access to the venue after the event.
They help secure expensive equipment and clean up the venue for remaining attendees and staff. This ensures that the facility goes back to its normal state without incident.
Smooth and Secure Event with 24 7 Gard
At 24 7 Gard, we understand the complexity involved with event security management. Our highly trained team of security professionals is prepared to handle every aspect of event safety, from customizing security plans and crowd control to special needs assistance for attendees. Whether it’s a private function or a large public event, we are dedicated to a smooth and secure operation.