While the rest of the population heads to the coast or boards a plane for adventures abroad, it’s time for the events industry and security professionals to hear jingle bells and make sure there’s a security presence amidst the presents as the countdown to the festive season begins.
It may be August, but the countdown to December has already begun, because keeping people safe and assets secure as crowds gather to enjoy the festival season takes planning! An integrated approach to counter terrorism, security and stewarding is important for events teams and local authorities planning for the festive season as they seek to implement proportionate measures and streamline their costs with a co-ordinated approach.
All the fun of the season
Festive markets, funfairs, ice-rinks, switch-on events and Father Christmas meet-and-greets are just some of the fun fixtures in the annual Christmas events calendar. Without them, Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas. It’s not just an opportunity for families to enjoy the delights of the season, it’s also a commercial boost for towns and cities, enticing people away from their online shopping to spend in local businesses.
But with crowds, comes risk, and event organisers and local authorities have a duty of care to keep everyone safe while they enjoy themselves. Here’s how SAFECROWDS provides an integrated approach to providing every aspects of crowd management, safety and security o help achieve those goals this festive season:
Counter terrorism
Led by Head of Counter Terrorism & Risk, Jonathan Neal, SAFECROWDS’ team can advise on the risk factors for events and suggest ways in which to mitigate risk.
Threat, Vulnerability and Risk Assessments (TVRA) along with Vehicle Dynamics Assessments (VDA) provide an evidence-based approach to selecting reasonably practicable and proportionate measures to protect people at an event. SAFECROWDS’ assessments go beyond vehicle attacks and HVM to include vulnerability to hostile reconnaissance and simple steps that can be taken to reduce risk.
The company can also specify, supply, install and manage hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) equipment at events, with trained teams of technicians to deploy and de-rig surface-mounted and certified systems in the correct locations in a timely manner.
SAFECROWDS K9 detection dogs and trained handlers mean that the company can also offer expo detection sweeps as part of an integrated counter terrorism package, deploying dogs specially trained to identify explosive devices.
Crowd Management
SAFECROWDS provides a joined up approach to crowd management, including traffic management with the company’s own fleet of vehicles, signage and equipment, and trained personnel.
Alongside the company’s experienced stewards, who are all first aid and ACT trained, SAFECROWDS can provide behavioural detection specialists who are trained to detect behaviours that may indicate that an individual is a threat, or that they are vulnerable and in need of help.
The company can also provide equipment to assist with bag and body searches.
Safeguarding
SAFECROWDS’ safeguarding services include provision of trained safeguarding teams and medics, along with K9 drug detection dogs that can help prevent drug dealing and consumption on site at events.
Security
SAFECROWDS’ experienced security teams have a proven track record at large-scale events. Well-presented and customer service trained, they are friendly and helpful, while ensuring that people and property are protected.
A cracker of a Christmas
It might be too soon to order the turkey and throw up the tree just yet, but time is ticking on getting security planned and booked for Christmas events. Now is the time to ensure those events are memorable for all the right reasons.