No matter how big or small your event can be, you have to remember that security issues will always be a priority concern. Unless you are prepared in managing all these event threats, you cannot assure that your guests and participants will be safe. It is important then to know how you can manage all these issues. It will be best to know the tips in managing each issue and incorporate it in event planning.
Give your event security team enough time to plan
Addressing event security in Montreal, as mentioned awhile back, this should not be done only when the event is already happening. It must always happen beforehand. In things like this, there is no such thing as ‘better late than never’. The entire security team must be given ample time to plan ahead for any contingencies. One very important thing to consider in the plan is choosing a safe location where security risks will not really be that rampant. The safety of the event’s place should coincide with all other considerations.
Control guest participation and attendance
One of the most challenging parts of event management is controlling the guest participation and attendance. Often, you are prepared with the guest list. The host sends out invitations to eligible guests and yet there are times when the guest list may not coincide with the number of invitations sent. Yes, the venue is large enough to accommodate the expected number of guests but you cannot be sure which ones are really in the guest list.
Unless your team is strict enough in allowing who should be given entry in the venue, you cannot be sure that only eligible guests come in. Remember that there are instances when one is admitted entry only because he or she is famous and is a known friend of the host. Add to that, they may bring some other companions who will nevertheless be allowed to come in.
How can you control such scenarios? You have to make it clear with the host and the entire security team that you are following a guest list that will make sure only eligible guests are allowed to enter. Explain that fire codes and the like may be violated when more than the number of people will be allowed to come in the venue. Clear and specific guidelines must be prepared.
Make someone the head of the team
That someone must be able to exercise authority at all times. He should be able to make appropriate decisions right away or whenever the need arises. He must be someone who can lead the entire team to work coherently to attain event safety. Having a go to person – only one person in-charge – will make it easier to address any other problem that may arise later on.
Prepare protective intelligence elements
Every person who is forming part of the security team must be familiar with the venue. This will help them address key security concerns during the event. If possible, GPS tracking can be used to make sure guests come in and out of the venue easily, without putting their lives at risk. It will also be good to be updated with possibilities of people who plan to protest against your event. Accessing social media will help you track these possibilities.
Make sure you can work well with other security teams as well
Your event’s security team are not the only people who will come in to secure guests. Some VIPs will have their own set of security team too. You must be able to work with this team to make sure the safety of these individuals are not compromised.
