Festival season is well and truly underway! Just like any event, 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, making them a key part of many people's calendars! Whilst this helps in creating an exceptional atmosphere, it makes it even more essential to have iron-clad security measures in place at all times. We're not just talking about huge festivals like Download and Glastonbury though, we're talking about independent festivals that are becoming more and more widespread.
Common problems at festivals
There are a number of factors at every festival that create challenges for your security team. This makes it vital you choose a security provider with the experience necessary, so they understand exactly how to handle a situation. Common problems include --
- Large crowds
- Alcohol and drugs
- Banned items
- Ticketed entrances
Security roles at festivals
There isn't a one size fits all approach when it comes to security. Instead, there are a number of different roles - it's a much larger operation than you might have previously considered!
Front of house security
The entrance of many music venues need 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 previous to 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, alcohol or any type of weapon.
Perimeter security
The majority of festivals are outside, and this means there are no brick walls to keep unwelcome individuals out! If you're smart, you'll have a tall fence around the perimeter, but even this won't stop cheeky trespassers 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.
'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 take 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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