Your Guide to Summer Event Security
When the summer sun hits Canada, you know what that means? Festivals, concerts, and outdoor fun of all sorts!
Places like Canada's Wonderland get packed and overflow with bubbling energy. But with this excitement also comes the responsibility of keeping everyone safe.
Large crowds, big venues, and the fast pace of live events mean that event security isn't optional—it's essential.
But how do you know if your usual security plan is enough? When should you bring in more event security guards?
When Do You Need More Event Security Guards?
Summer events are all about fun! But for everyone to have fun, safety must be a top priority.
And the more eyes and ears, the safer the event will be.
Too few guards mean slower response times, poor crowd control, and blind spots. Planning ahead and having enough event security guards can stop problems before they start.
So, how do you know when standard staffing isn't enough?
Consider the following:
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Attendance. How many people do you expect? A larger crowd naturally increases potential risks and requires more security guards to ensure everyone is safe.
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Venue Size and Layout. Bustling venues, multiple stages, or complex layouts need more vigilance than a small local street fair. You'll need guards to cover entry/exit points, bottlenecks, hidden corners, and perimeters.
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Event Type. A high-energy concert or an event serving alcohol often requires a more visible security presence than a daytime family festival.
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Time and Duration. Events happening late at night often need more security than daytime ones. Longer events also mean you need to plan for breaks and shift changes.
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History. Did similar events in the past have security problems? Use that information to help plan for this event.
It's about being proactive, not reactive.
The Role of an Event Security Guard
Sometimes, even just the mere presence of a security guard helps prevent things from getting out of hand. We've all seen what can happen when large crowds get rowdy—accidental injuries or more serious situations.
Having trained event security personnel around means there are people ready to help if something happens.
Event Security Tips
Access Control
This is your first security point. It includes managing entries and checking tickets, people, and bags carefully but quickly.
Using tools like walk-through or handheld metal detectors helps stop forbidden items from getting inside.
Visible Presence
Uniformed guards standing in key spots act as a deterrent to potential troublemakers. They also show attendees who to ask for help and make guests feel safer.
Crowd Control
This is more than just people-watching. Use clear signs, barriers, and marked paths to guide people, stop too many people from gathering in one spot, and manage lines well.
Trained guards can direct crowds and spot dangers like pushing or crowds moving too fast.
Communication
Give your team reliable radios and radio equipment. Good communication between guards, supervisors, and event managers is crucial for working together, sharing information, and quickly getting backup or medical help.
Emergency Preparedness
Make sure emergency exits and escape routes are clear and well-lit. Your event security team must know the emergency plan and be ready to help people leave if needed. Work with local police and emergency medical services before the event.
Keep tools on your duty belt for potential emergencies.
For example:
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If you're in a high drug-use area and are given Narcan, place it in a Narcan pouch on your duty belt for safekeeping and easy access.
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If you're doing security at a festival, having a first-aid kit pouch on your duty belt is never a bad idea.
Tools of the Trade for the Event Security Team
To ensure your event's security staff serves and protects as best they can, you need to equip them properly.
Some common items include batons and handcuffs for situations requiring restraint.
But, make sure your guards have the needed training and permits before supplying duty gear.
High-quality security guard training teaches observant vigilance, crowd management techniques, handling conflicts, and basic first aid.
Visit Guardian Outfitters today to make sure you get everything your security guards need before your event starts.
Besides high-quality gear and apparel (that is affordable), we also offer security guard courses to ensure you have everything you need to get licensed.
Best yet, we don’t only cater to the individual guard. If you need to shop gear in bulk, we have corporate account options too.
So, get summer-ready with our extensive selection of reliable security gear.
Stay secure this summer!