Yes, it’s still January, and yes it seems as though festival season is a long way off, but if you’re organising a festival, you’ll know that planning started a while ago already! Part of that planning has to be security, security is not only essential, but it's expected, making the security team you contract just as important as the bands you choose to perform.

Festivals are continuing to grow in both size and popularity year on year, especially after the years of lockdown we had, making them a focus of many people's calendars! This includes the growing popularity of independent festivals and not just the ones most well-known such as Download, Reading and Glastonbury.

Whilst this helps in creating an exceptional atmosphere, it makes it even more essential to do your research on the security contractor you choose, as common problems include:  

• Large crowds
• Alcohol and drugs
• Banned items
• Ticketed entrances

The complex nature of festivals means splitting your security officers into key areas of focus.

Front of house security

The entrance of many music venues needs to have front of house security to check that everyone has an ID or a ticket, and a festival is the same. Larger festivals, in particular, require tickets to be bought before attending the event, and it's the role of the security team to ensure only those who have paid to be there can attend. It is also the role of a front of house security team to check for any banned items, be that drugs or alcohol, for example.

Perimeter security

The majority of festivals are outside, and this means there are no brick walls to keep unwelcome individuals out! We’d recommend tall fencing around the perimeter, but even this won't stop cheeky trespassers from trying to sneak in undetected. This is where perimeter security becomes a necessity, not only to make it difficult for unauthorised access but to act quickly and professionally should someone try their luck.

Mobile patrols

Having security patrolling around the entire site at all times creates a sense of safety for your festival goers. It not only means that security guards are close by and ready to step in if need be, but it also helps in ensuring a feeling of calm throughout the event. Our security officers are also first aid trained as part of holding a valid SIA license. This means we can be on hand to assist should your designated first-aiders be delayed in arriving to the individual in need of medical attention.

'Restricted access' security

The final role to mention is that of security that's in place to keep festival goers away from areas that might be restricted, such as the front of stages, backstage, VIP areas, staff areas and any other places that might be out-of-bounds

For more information on how we can provide a quality security service at your festival, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Alternatively, if you're looking to further your career within the security industry, and you think you have what it takes to be part of the Carter Solutions and Services Limited team, please check the careers section on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

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