Enhancing Safety and Security for Large Event Venues

As Milwaukee gears up to host the 2024 RNC Convention, along with numerous concerts, festivals, and conventions, venues and businesses face the crucial task of ensuring they are fully prepared to handle large crowds and enhance safety measures. Reliable life safety and security systems, alongside well-planned security procedures, are essential for creating a secure environment for these high-profile events.

Lemberg’s expert data communication specialist, Ernie Garza, shares his knowledge and offers a comprehensive list of security considerations to consider as venues prepare for large-scale events.

Video Security Systems

Assessing and upgrading video security are critical steps in ensuring a secure environment. The newest systems have features like face search, motion search, live viewing, remote viewing, immediate threat response, and even license plate recognition for tracking and recording vehicle entry and exit points.

Your video security should also have high-quality playback from accurate monitoring and post-event analysis. Consider the following aspects:

• Frames Per Second (FPS): Look for cameras with a high FPS video capture rate to ensure smooth and clear footage. This is crucial for identifying specific actions and individuals in crowded environments.
• Resolution: Opt for higher-definition cameras that offer clear and detailed images, vital for identifying faces and other important details. The standard quality is 1080 pixels, but new systems can offer 2k or 4k resolution.

Advanced security camera systems, such as those from Verkada, not only check all these boxes but also can track the movement of individuals and groups, helping security personnel monitor crowd flow and detect unusual behavior patterns.

Communication Networks and Connectivity

• Wi-Fi Boosters and Extenders
• Cell Phone Signal Boosters

Ensuring reliable communication and connectivity is crucial for security operations and attendee experience. Improving Wi-Fi coverage with boosters and extenders can ensure consistent connectivity, even in expansive venues like stadiums or convention centers. Boosting cell phone signals using advanced antennae and specialty cable helps maintain strong signal strength for essential communications within a defined area.

These enhancements support the seamless operation of security systems and facilitate effective communication among staff and attendees, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable environment.

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Fire Alarm and Life Safety Systems

It’s essential to thoroughly test and review your life safety systems to ensure everything functions correctly. This includes inspecting fire alarm systems, verifying building classifications for maximum occupancy, and ensuring all systems are operational before events.

Consider the following recommendations:

Controlled Building Access

• Determine all groups of people who will need access to various areas of the venue. This includes staff, vendors, performers, and VIP guests.
• Implement a system to monitor all day-to-day access and archive the data for future reference. This may include cameras, gate systems, and keycards. Managing security can be crucial during an emergency.
• Incorporate RFID and metal security entrance/gate screeners to control access and manage temporary admittance, significantly enhancing security for large events.

Fire Alarm Systems

• Verify that your fire alarm system complies with all relevant safety codes, regulations, and building classification requirements. This includes confirming the system is designed to handle the maximum occupancy.
• Inspect and test your fire alarm system functionality and signal strength.
• Ensure your fire alarm system has redundancy features to prevent single points of failure. This includes backup power supplies and multiple communication pathways.

Mass Communication Systems

• Integrate your mass communication system with the fire alarm system to ensure synchronized alerts. This helps provide clear and immediate instructions to attendees during an emergency.
• Invest in mass communication systems that include video and audio signals such as strobe lights and speaker systems capable of both wide area and selective warning or all-clear broadcasts.
• Utilize multiple channels for communication, such as PA systems, mobile apps, and digital displays. This redundancy ensures messages are received even if one communication method fails.?

Download our Data Communications Project Planning Worksheet and Checklist?

Safety Training and Crisis Plan Review

Safety and security training is the cornerstone of a secure and protected building and venue. It starts with a well-thought-out crisis prevention and response plan.

Take time to consider your building, business, employees, and visitors. Consider working with a professional to identify a variety of emergency scenarios along with proactive and preventive measures for those. Consider the technology and systems you'll need to respond quickly and effectively to any scenario.

Train your employees to understand your integrated security systems, including their key functions and locations. This is the best way to provide the knowledge and skills needed to respond to emergencies, mitigate risks, and safeguard lives.

This includes providing detailed plans and training on exiting and sweeping a building for stragglers at the end of the day. Your plan should have designated "muster" points, areas of refuge and rescue, or safe zones for quick headcounts.

At Lemberg Data Communications, we specialize in designing and implementing comprehensive Life Safety and Security Systems for large venues such as stadiums, concert halls, and convention centers. Our solutions integrate advanced technologies and strategic planning to create secure environments where people can enjoy their experiences with peace of mind.

How do you ensure the safety and security of your venue during large events? Share your strategies and experiences in the comments below!