What If…
As a planner you spend time thinking about “If we do this, then we can expect this to happen.” In terms of attendee safety and security, you need to stop and ask, “What if…the fire alarm in the ballroom goes off, then what do we do?”
In terms of the Boston Marathon, the planners had asked, “What if a bombing or shooting took place? What do we do?” It appeared that they had considered these scenarios as the first responders took action while the whole world watched. They demonstrated that while we cannot prevent every contingency, we should be prepared when things do happen. We therefore can never stop asking ourselves “What if…”
Just this Monday, we were reminded of the importance of safety. The bombings that hit the Boston Marathon that afternoon made the city come together, as well as the rest of the country. Reading through many articles about the bombings, I came across one that mentioned the effects that it may have on the event industry. As the article stated, “For the event industry, the biggest question is the security at running events as well as large public gatherings.”
The BizBash article goes on to quote Jon Hughes from Track Shack Events. He ran in the Boston Marathon and was on his way back to the hotel when he could see the smoke. As an event producer, Jon was able to take a perspective on what future events may look like following this incidence.
It is safe to say that future races will be impacted, as they try to increase the security measures for the bystanders while maintaining the level of security they have for those participating. How much security is enough to ensure the safety of the civilians and those actually running? That is tough to say and I am sure that it will depend on the location and number of participants expected at each race. Still, races around the nation are pressing onward with higher precautions in regards to safety. It is safe to say that it is one of the top priorities of race personnel.
It is essential that any large event, outside or inside, has followed all possible security procedures. Event planners should take this event as a warning to assess the situation prior to the start of event to ensure that all of the precautions have been taken to the best of ability. Any potential errors or mishaps should be accounted for and a backup plan should be created in case something does happen that is not in the written plans. Also, the selection of a safe location and venue is imperative to the overall safety of an event. Hosting a large gathering in a secure place, that feels welcoming and comforting, will make things much easier for the security that is running the event. Security officers should be available at all times during the event, walking around, and showing their presence to the attendees to comfort them and their safety. But, be careful, too much demonstration of security personnel may frighten some attendees into thinking something has occurred. And finally, know the emergency services in the area and have the contact information on hand just in case.
Esprit Productions will continue to keep Boston in our thoughts and prayers.
