Citadel Outlets

Special events present unique challenges that must be considered in the planning stages to facilitate a successful outcome. Security needs to be involved early in order to identify important issues and help shape the event so that it is safe and enjoyable for everyone. Security plays an important role in events both large and small. Some key areas to address include:

Threat Assessment and Mitigation 

What could potentially disrupt the event?  

For some events this may be an exhaustive list that would include both natural and manmade threats (weather, health and safety concerns, Threats against VIP or high-profile performers and attendees, equipment or infrastructure issues). Each event is unique and will have potential threats that can cause a disruption. It is important to consider threats early and identify ways to eliminate them or at least mitigate their impact.

Collaboration

Early collaboration and coordination with all stakeholders are of vital importance. It is critical to communicate with and involve all internal and external stakeholders in the planning process. Stakeholders can include venue staff, vendors, first responders, performers or their staff, contractors, city officials and others depending upon the size and location of the event.  

Communication is a key component of collaboration.  

Planning in advance for how communication will occur during the event is important. Two-way radios and dedicated smart phone app are often used for venue staff and event crew. Communication to attendees can include wayfinding signage, public address systems and mobile alerts. 

"Though the security needs of each event are different, i have found that conducting effective threat assessments and developing strong relationships with key stakeholders are the critical building blocks in creating an effective event security plan."

Large public events tend to follow the National Incident Management System (NIMS) framework developed by FEMA. Collaboration with first responders for emergency response planning will help inform communication methods that will be used in the event of a critical incident.

Traffic and Parking Control

Consideration of the guest experience prior to arrival and following the event is an often-overlooked element. Parking is the guest’s first and last impression of the venue and that impression will influence their decision to return in the future. A well-lit and clean parking area that is easy to enter and exit helps facilitate a positive guest experience. 

Parking capacity for large events is a key consideration and often remote parking areas with some form of shuttle or transportation must be considered. Traffic control on the streets near the venue should be addressed as well and may involve using law enforcement to assist with directing traffic and controlling traffic signals. 

Credentialing and Tiered Access ​ 

Methods of controlling access to sensitive areas at an event will vary depending on the size, type of event and identified threats. The goal however remains the same – the protection of people and property. Some common credentialing and access control methods include color-coded wristbands or badges that provide different levels of access (Backstage, VIP, Artist, All Access) that can be read quickly at checkpoints. 

Along with appropriate vetting and credentialing of each person working the event, designated parking areas, entrances and paths of travel need to be identified for performers and VIPs.

Crowd Control and Management 

Attendee ingress and egress plans will vary by event (ticketed/ non-ticketed, need for weapons or contraband screening and many more). One key component is managing chokepoints or bottlenecks which have the potential to create frustration and even lead to security related incidents. Crowd surveillance is important and best achieved through a combination of security/ event staff and technology such as monitored security cameras. Surveillance and good communication provide the opportunity for event staff to address an issue before it escalates. 

Protecting attendees from vehicle ramming attacks is another important consideration. Physical barriers such as bollards along with effective traffic management can play a large role in reducing the likelihood of these tragic events.

Overcrowding is another concern that needs to be addressed through effective crowd management. Appropriately marked ingress and egress points, alternative viewing areas, physical barriers and crowd monitoring all play a role in overcrowding prevention.

Conclusion

Every event has unique challenges and the potential threats identified will guide the security and safety strategy. Though the security needs of each event are different, I have found that conducting effective threat assessments and developing strong relationships with key stakeholders are the critical building blocks in creating an effective event security plan.