Organizing an event isn’t easy. It would be best if you put event security measures in place for your attendees. Managing a large crowd is important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your attendees. The largest-ever concert attendance was approximately 3.5 million attendees. It went successfully due to the crowd management methods that were in place. Here are the top five ways to manage large crowds at your event effectively.
1. Planning
This step is time-consuming but one that should not be ignored. Heed the words of the ancient saying, “By failing to prepare, you’re preparing to fail.” So, recruit a team of leaders to help in managing smaller groups of team members. Your planning committee should include:
- Venue management
- Event contractors
- Security personnel
- Integral employees
- Local law enforcement
The committee should review the facility maps to note where all the exit and entrance points are. The points must be marked at all times to create a safe environment.
2. Assess the Attendees
Understanding the anticipated crowd size is difficult since the attendance might depend on the event, weather, attraction, or time of the year. Therefore, it’s wise to use attendance data from previous functions to get a baseline. Some facilities might have a maximum capacity. Such information is important to note. It is crucial to evaluate if you can reach the capacity, and if so, find out an alternative for extra guests. Keep in mind that for the more attendees you have, the more security guards you will want to hire.
3. Make a Risk Assessment
An important requirement for managing a large crowd is controlling the flow of attendees. Start by considering event security measures as the attendees enter and leave the facility.
- Entrances and exits are clearly marked
- Create pathways for guests if long lines are expected
- In an emergency, ensure lights come on immediately to brighten exits and pathways
- Keep the crowd from forming groups that might block entrances, exits, pathways, and stairwells
- The employees should assist the attendees with where they need to go during the event
- Use mobile surveillance towers from Reconview to help have eyes on everyone present
4. Use a Lot of Signage
You can avoid confusion if you use proper event signage. Ensure that your guests can find their way and understand where not to go. Use signage that can be read afar for the following directives:
- Restrooms
- Potential hazards
- Staff-only areas
- Smoking areas
- Registration queues
- Security booths
No matter the number of guests, event security should be your primary focus. Review how the event will unfold with your team and make changes where needed. You can also consider hiring professional crowd management services to help create a plan to manage your attendees and ensure everyone has a safe and pleasant experience. Consult with Reconview today to get the security equipment you need.