Ultimate Stadium Security: The Crucial Considerations

Venue security in the 21st century is a very different beast to that of past decades. Violent attacks, terror alerts, and the increase in individuals carrying weapons are just some of the reasons security needs have altered dramatically over recent years.

For event planners and stadium bosses, it’s essential to ensure effective security measures are in place that address all of the challenges of event security today. The following are some of the key aspects of security detail that ensures adequate provision for the safety of all.

Security should be multi-layered

One of the biggest challenges facing stadium security services are the multiple aspects that need to be controlled. These include:

• Crowd access and egress
• Vehicles and parking lots
• Security checkpoints, bag checks, and the use of magnetometers and/or pat-downs
• Areas of restricted access
• Provision for the inevitable accidents and illness

While the presence of multiple security guards is indeed a necessity, venues should also be taking full advantage of a network of security cameras for full situational awareness. These should be both within the venue and externally, so allowing for adequate visualization of all entrances and exits, vendors, areas where crowds might gather, license plate recognition, medical emergencies, and the ability to track individuals displaying suspicious behavior.

Communication

The necessity for security personnel to adequately communicate with each other is vital, but so too is the capacity to communicate with attendees. Of course, a staunch PA system goes without saying, but good event security uses alternative methods to get proactive messages across to crowds that can assist in reducing issues such as long lines at entry points, food points, etc. 

Multiple signage at areas like bag checkpoints giving instructions so people are prepared can help reduce the build-up of crowds. In addition, pre-event communication via ticketing outlets, social media, and other methods should also be utilized.

Offsite security command center

Years ago this would’ve been located onsite. In today’s nervous world it’s necessary for security command to be safely offsite, therefore reducing the chances of being a target for attack and not being caught up or rendered defenseless should an incident take place. A strategic location allows for personnel to initiate and coordinate appropriate responses should an incident occur.

Major incident planning

It’s imperative to have a well-practiced major incident plan that allows for all emergency response to work in unity. Security should be well prepared to deal with all four stages of a major incident:

• Initial response
• Consolidation
• Recovery
• Restoration of normality

Stadiums and event planners must ensure their security services are well-versed in the latest security practices and training. Fast Guard Security Service is a global leader in the provision of effective security for all levels of operation, from the smallest of event to the largest of stadium locations. Their expert team provides the utmost in security provision as well as risk assessment of individual locations and the creation of structured strategies to fully encompass all relevant security needs.

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