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Event Security, Event Security Services, A&R Security Services, COVID-19, Welsh Government, Small Events, Pilot Scheme

Event Security: Are you ready to welcome spectators back?

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2020 was to be the year for big events, with Glastonbury celebrating its 50th anniversary, Qatar holding the FIFA world cup and Japan holding the 2020 Olympic games. However, with the rise of the Coronavirus pandemic and the fear of the virus rapidly spreading, events across Wales, the UK and the globe were put on hold or cancelled altogether.

But there was a small light at the end of the tunnel for both sporting and art event organisers. At the beginning of August 2020, the UK opened its first socially distanced venue (the Virgin Money Unity Arena) which played two sold-out shows on the grounds of Gosforth Park, with 2,500 seats spaced out on 500 viewing platforms. However, due to the recent localised spikes in Coronavirus – organisers put a stop to any further events like these.

Now the Welsh and UK governments are looking to kick start small sporting and art events that would allow only a 100 spectators in. The Welsh government said that this would be a ‘Two-pronged approach’ with these small-scale events depending on the success of England’s pilot event schemes and the state of COVID-19.

But even with these small pilot scheme events succeeding and larger events such as the Guinness Pro-14 and the Six Nations getting the green light to welcome larger crowds of spectators, there is still the logistics surrounding public safety and minimising the spread of COVID-19.

Although limiting the number of spectators to such large events will help in towards minimising the risks of localised spikes, there is still the risk of those limited numbers not following guidelines that will be put into place to ensure their safety.

We at A&R Security services understand that it will take time for larger events such as the Six Nations, Olympic games and even Glastonbury festival to return but in the meantime, we can provide effective event security solutions to ensure that the public remains safe and your event runs without a hitch.

So to ensure that spectators are kept safe our manned guards can provide effective crowd control by:

  • Conducting Temperature checks
  • Ensure social distancing is adhered to at all times
  • Ensure that only those with masks or face coverings are allowed to enter
  • Good hand hygiene is maintained
  • Track and trace information is obtained.
  • Bag searches

Alongside our manned guards providing crowd control at the entrance of your event, we can provide effective mobile patrols. Our mobile guards can conduct on foot patrols around your venue space, ensuring spectators are following social distancing rules, there are no unauthorised personal or suspicious objects in restricted areas, and they can quickly respond to any emergencies.

And it’s not just large events that we can provide security for, we can provide tailored and effective security solutions for smaller events too. To learn more about our event security take a look at our website for further details or to arrange a free no-obligation meeting call us on 01656 713950.

 

Hospitality, Hospitality industry, Hospitality Security, July 13th, Pub, Restaurant, Hotel, Security Guards, Manned Guards, Crowd control, event Security, Pub security, restaurant security, hotel security

Hospitality Security: Why should you have Crowd Control?

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At the start of the pandemic in March, much of the hospitality industry within Wales and the UK closed their doors, with no end date in sight.

Although the government have been supportive with the furlough scheme and has helped many businesses within the hospitality industry keep paying their bills it can only go so far and soon the government will not be able to continue with the scheme.

Many businesses within the hospitality industry will be fearing that with no end in-sight and support from the government soon to end, many would be faced with the hard truth of having to cuts jobs and even close their doors for the final time. And for many owners and employees within the industry, working in hospitality is a passion, not a job.

However, during the past few days, there were the beginnings of light at the end of the tunnel when First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford announced plans for businesses within the hospitality industry to once again open their doors and welcome staff and customers.

But, even with the new announcement and the relaxation in lockdown rules, it is not as simple as opening the doors and letting customers walk in. There are still rules that both you and your customers need to adhere to, to ensure both your safety during this time.  This includes:

  • Limiting the number of customers within your premises at one time.
  • Ensuring ‘pinch points’ such as doors and tight corners/space are kept clear and social distancing is being followed
  • Using one-way systems for customers and staff to enter and exit your premises.
  • Preventing customers from doing up to the bar by introducing table service
  • Gather customer contact details so that ‘track & trace’ can be adopted should an outbreak of the coronavirus is reported.

Right now, with lockdown rules in Wales relaxing, social distancing very much remains in place. To ensure that your customers follow strict social distancing rules, invest in having crowd control services from A&R Security Services.

Throughout the pandemic, we have been continually providing effective security for our clients across South Wales and all of our security staff understand the importance of social distancing during this time and how to effectively implement it.

With crowd control now being the important topic for businesses within the hospitality industry who are looking to re-open on the 13th July, it’s not only the logistics that they have to think about, it’s also the necessary implementation of professional and trustworthy crowd control services that will keep both customers and staff safe.

As stated by a member of the police force on this week’s news, “Alcohol and social distancing don’t mix” especially when some customers may have had one too many. Investing in physical security guards to provide effective crowd control means that you have the safety of your customers and staff firmly in your mind and it takes the pressure off your staff having to ensure that your customers are staying safe whilst having a good time.

For more information on how we can work with you to provide effective crowd control for your business then visit our website here or give us a call on 01656 713950 to arrange a free quotation today.

A&R Security Services, Martyn's Law, Security, Venue Security, Venue Security Services, Manchester,

Government backs Martyn’s Law airport security for venues

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In May 2017 the UK witnessed the biggest and most terrorising attack at Manchester Arena, where 22 people lost their lives. Since then the UK government has increased its terror threat and has increased security measures such as banning backpacks and large bags from large concert venues to prevent further harm to the public and prevent further terror attacks.

Since the attack, there have been campaigns to increase anti-terror security measures. This includes a campaign led by Ms Murray after her son Martyn Hett was killed in the Manchester Arena bombing. Her campaign wants to see concert and sporting venues to have airport-style checks to prevent further terror attacks against the public and in January 2020 the government-backed ‘Martyn’s Law’.

Security Minister Brandon Lewis said Prime Minister Boris Johnson was ‘100%’ behind the plans for bag searches and metal detectors at venues across the UK.

In January 2020, Manchester City Council announced that they were adopting the new law early and although there are no set deadlines to when venues will be seeing these new security measures, Ms Murray was happy with the move.

Now, the Home office has said it will consult on Martyn’s Law and see which venues will need to prepare for any terror risk.

Ms Murray said, “This consultation is the start of making us all that bit safer”… “Public venues already have all sorts of obligations from fire prevention to health and safety – but until now there has been no duty to protect their customers”…”Martyn’s law will change that. It’s a common-sense step that will save lives in the future”

To see more about Martyn’s Law story, visit the BBC website here.

If you are a public venue and would like additional security, please take a look at our event security services or call us on 01656 713950

Christmas Party, event Security, Cardiff, Event, Security Services, A&R Security Services

Event Security: Does your Christmas party need it?

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We are now officially in the run-up to Christmas. This means that it is acceptable to wear garish Christmas jumpers, sing and play Christmas songs and eat chocolate and mince pies every day!

But, it’s also that time of year where businesses throughout in Cardiff plan their Christmas parties.

According to a poll, 23% of workers have admitted to awkward dancing at the Christmas work party, 20% said they kissed a colleague and 14% admitted to flirting with the boos (bit risky).

While event security guards can’t do much to prevent some dodgy dancing or some office flirting, they can help ensure that your Christmas party goes without a hitch.

So, here is how event security can help keep your Christmas party under control.

Access control

If you are in a venue with multiple events going on, it can be easy for gate-crashers to sneak in posing as your business’ employees and if it’s a large crowd of gate-crashers – it can be a big problem.

Handing over your guest list to event security guards that are stationed in front of doors can ensure that only legitimate employees are allowed inside. Having professional security guards on the door also gives the event organiser more time to mingle with other employees and enjoy themselves – and ensures that the entry process is done in a professional and safe manner.

 

Crime Deterrent

Having event security guards on the door not only means that unwelcomed guests are kept out, but it also invites employees who are in the party to be well behaved and stay out of mischief.

This means that arguments, fights and other disturbances are less likely to occur – and ensures that everyone gets home safely and in one piece. It also means that cloak-room thieves or even other employees are less likely to steal private possessions such as phones, wallets and bags. If they do try, they are more likely to get caught and be dealt with accordingly.

Situation management

In any party, there is always someone looking to push the boundaries when it comes to harmless games and situations can quickly get out of hand. Dancing on tables and building human pyramids could potentially become dangerous (especially with drink involved). However, having a quiet word from a security guard will be enough to bring people back down to earth.

With security guards constantly monitoring what is going on at all times, the chance of any serious accidents is less likely to happen.

 

Emergency liaison

Security guards are fully trained to quickly respond and make decisions in any security incident. If an incident does occur at your Christmas party, security guards will make sure that it is dealt with in an effective and practical manner – this includes notifying the relevant emergency services.

 

We at A&R Security Services can provide effective event security services to corporate events in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Christmas party, event security, event, security, security services, office christmas party, office party, christmas

Top tips on running a safe and successful Christmas Party

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With Christmas coming careering towards us, many offices in Cardiff will be organising the Office Christmas party. Celebrating everyone’s hard work is certainly a lot of fun but having everything in place for a great night of festivities is no easy task. When organising a Christmas party, there is a lot that you need to consider – and the most important one is ensuring your colleague’s safety.

When organising its important that you take precautions and stick to good event security and safety practises (especially if you want everyone to have a good night but also stay safe at the same time). By sticking to these you can keep everyone safe – except embarrassing themselves with bad dancing and some dodgy karaoke or comedy.

 

Be alcohol safe

When the bosses have a free bar going and the drink starts flowing, it can be easy to misjudge and get carried away with the festivities. However, from an organisers point of view, alcohol can cause more issues than just embarrassing incidents.

Alcohol can lower our inhibitions and alter our sense of risk meaning that people who have one too many may be tempted to do things that they wouldn’t normally do – like dance on tables, take part in drink competitions or even get into fights. If you’re trying to avoid such situations try and keep an eye on how much your guests are drinking and intervene when you think someone has had too much.

 

Keep a guest list and plan seating

When organising an event and inviting guests, it is important to have up-to-date records of who is coming and who isn’t. If you’re allocating people to tables, make sure you have thought about who is sitting where and whether the people sitting next to each other have things in common. If you have a new member of staff – sit them with someone who will be able to keep the conversation going.

For guests to know where they are sat, place guests lists at the venues entrance or the restaurants front of house so that uninvited guests are unable to enter your party. If the venue doesn’t have extra staff to monitor who is coming to the party, hire extra security staff that are able to monitor who is coming in and out of the venue and ensure that no unwanted guests try to crash the party.

 

Theft

Although thefts may seem like an unlikely thing to happen during a Christmas party, bags and coats left on chairs or at the side of the room can give opportunists the chance to swipe valuables whilst everyone is busy busting out dance moves. So when guests arrive, make sure that they know where the cloakroom is and ensure that security staff are positioned close-by.

 

Dietary requirements

When organising an event such as an office party, it is important that everyone’s dietary requirements are catered for. So, before the big event, make sure that your guests have informed you of any food allergies, intolerances and dietary requirements.

Epilepsy/Hearing/Sight impediment

For any event, it is important to heed advice from anyone suffering from Epilepsy or other impairments relating to hearing or sight. Precautions such as reduced strobe or LED lighting, considering music volume or planning for people with guide dogs can go a long way.

Here at A&R Security Services can help you run a safe Christmas office party by providing guards that are fully trained in First aid and Health & Safety. Having properly trained security at your party means that help is on hand straightaway if a situation arises.

 

Car parking

If your party is in a hotel, restaurant or club, make sure that there is a carpark close by or there are designated parking spaces for guests who want to stay sober and drive home. If you are expecting guests with mobility issues, make sure that there is disabled access such as disabled parking, lowered curbs, ramps and power-assisted doors and enough space to move around freely inside the venue.

When choosing a venue as well, it is a good idea to look at where the venue is in relation to guests – how will the get to and from homes? If you choose a venue that is quite far from work, check what public transport is available.

 

Enjoy yourself!

When you are the person organising the Christmas party you want everything to go perfectly and without a hitch but it’s important that you can ley your hair down and relax. Make sure to drink responsibly, eat well, dress to impress and give yourself a pat on the back for a successful and safe Christmas party! Just make sure that you don’t drink too much and tell your boss something that you may regret on Monday morning when you’re back in the office.

 

A&R Security Services can provide comprehensive security solutions to event organisers in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our security services visit our website or call us for a free quote on 01656 713950

 

Concerts, Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Security Services , Security, Concert Security, live music

Keeping yourself safe at concerts in Cardiff

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Cardiff is a young city but has a fast-growing creative scene and has proven itself to be one of the best places for live music concerts in the UK. With the Principality Stadium playing host to top musicians such as Take That, Ed Sheeran, the Spice Girls and Pink!

But with recent terror attacks on concerts such as the Ariana Grande Manchester attack, large stadiums such as the Principality Stadium have had to boost and tighten its security measures, to make sure that you the public are safe.  But even with tighter security, there are criminals who are there to ruin your fun. With concerts, thousands of people will be flooding into venues like the Principality Stadium to reach their seats or to get the prime spot by the stage. But with so many people packed in corridors, seats and by the stage – these can present the perfect opportunity for criminals.

So, what can you do to keep yourself safe at concerts?

Take a cheap or older model phone – Now everyone likes to share what they are doing online and take pictures of a once in a lifetime experience. But taking your latest modelled phone to a concert can attract pickpocketers. To prevent them from taking your phone, take an older model or cheaper phone so that you are not worried about it being stolen or going missing.

Take a bumbag or money belt instead – Rucksacks and handbags can easily catch the sight of pickpocketers as these can be easily opened or grabbed in large crowds. So instead take a bumbag or money belt that sits in the front of yourself.

Download ‘Find my Phone’ – Having ‘Find my phone’ can be incredibly useful as you can track it if anyone were to steal your phone.

Sexual harassment and Violence

Sexual Harassments and attacks – In concerts you are in very close quarters and many criminals will try to either sexually harass you or attack you. If you feel pressured into anything, get the attention of either a friend or the concert security staff.

Stay in a group – As mentioned before, you will be in very close quarters with other people visiting the concert and you can easily lose sight of your friends. If you are in a group try to stay close and if you do lose each other in a crowd, arrange to meet at a point outside of the venue at a certain time.

Report it – A lot of people will focus on the act that is performing on stage, but you should still be vigilant of any sexual harassment or violence. If you see anything, report it to the event security or the police. Also, if you see any suspicious activity inside the concert or anyone carrying weapons – report it immediately.

Health

Drugs – If you are drinking at a concert be aware of people trying to spike your drink with illegal drugs. When drinking, make sure that your drink is in front of you or the top is covered by your hand/thumb or cap. Do not accept any illegal high from anyone, no matter how much they try to persuade you.

Hydration – Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Terrorism – As mentioned at the beginning of this blog, terror attacks on concerts have seen an increase and so if you see any suspicious-looking items left, report it to the event security and move away as far as possible.

Call 999 – If you think there is an emergency at the concert call 999 and get the attention of the event security staff with radio mics or walkie talkies.

Don’t accept a stranger’s bag – No matter how nice or normal they look, do not accept a strangers bag or any other object that they may ask you to look after.

Follow emergency instructions – If there is an emergency at the concert you’re attending, keep calm and follow the instructions of the event staff and/or emergency services.

Keep your phone charged – Make sure that your phone is fully charged in case you have to call emergency services. It is also good practise to take a portable charger with you if your phone does run out of charge.

A&R Security Services has 40 years experience in the Security Industry. We can effectively provide both manned and mobile event security to locations across South Wales and the South West. If you would like to know more about our services visit our website for further details or call us on 01656 713950

Pride, Cardiff Pride, Cardiff, LGBTQ, Security, Event Security, Event, Security Services, A&R Security Services

How to keep yourself safe during pride!

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Pride is the biggest celebration of the LGBTQ community in the world and every year Cardiff celebrates with a massive two-day event spectacle within the heart of the city.

If pride is your first event or you’re a veteran, keeping your personal security in mind is important. There are a number of potential risks and threats, so it’s always best to be prepared for anything that may ruin your experience.

If you’re worried about your personal security, then take a look at our guide on staying safe at pride.

Theft:

Consider bringing a cheaper or older model phone which is unlikely to get stolen. 

Take a bumbag or money belt rather than a rucksack or a handbag as criminals will catch sight of these and attempt to open or take them – especially in crowded areas.

Disposable cameras may be a thing of the past, but they are less of a target to criminals compared to expensive digital camera’s or phones. If you cannot get hold of a disposable camera, take an older model camera. 

Never leave your valuables unattended even for a few minutes. If you are sat with a group of friends, make sure that all of your bags are in the middle of the group. If you need to leave to get food or use the toilet, ask one of your friends to keep an eye on your bag.

Download ‘Find your phone’ on your smartphone so if someone did steal your phone, you can track it and hopefully get it back securely.

 

Sexual Harassment/attacks:

If you feel pressured into anything sexual or get harassed, get the attention of the event security staff who should be on-site 24/7, or tell a friend where you are immediately.

Stay in groups of friends and never walk away on your own, even if you know the layout of the event grounds.

If you see something which classes as sexual harassment or violence, report it to the event security or police right away – don’t just walk away.

 

Anti-social behaviour:

Stay out of arguments or fights and report anything which gets out of hand to event security.

If you feel uncomfortable in an area of the event, move somewhere else away from arguments or anti-social behaviour.

Report anything suspicious to event security staff or call 999 in an emergency – such as people in possession of weapons.

Respect other event-goers so don’t try to get a good spot for a performance – everyone is there for a good time and to feel safe.

 

Health

Do not accept illegal highs from anyone – no matter how much that person is trying to convince you.

Stay hydrated and eat well.

Weather in the UK can be unpredictable so make sure you have adequate outerwear such as pack-away raincoats and daps.

Carry a first aid kit with you for minor injuries such as cuts, grazes and stings.

 

Terrorism:

Report any suspicious activity, bags or objects to event security or police and get far away as possible.

If you think there is an emergency, call 999 and look out for event security staff who have walkie-talkies or radio mics

If something does happen – keep calm and follow instructions from event staff/emergency services.

Keep your phone charged in case you need to make an emergency call and let people know that you are safe.

 

Event Security Services, Security Services, Security

Having Effective Event Security

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With the British summer being set to be filled with an array of music events, festivals, sporting and community events, there has never been a more important time to stress the importance of event security.

Over the past few years, both small and large events have been targets for attacks, so security at events needs to hit the mark in protecting both the public and staff.
But what can be done to keep guests safe and an event trouble-free?

1. Choose the right venue – when planning an event and choosing a venue, keeping security in mind is important. Internal venues such as Concert halls, theatres, hotels, museums, etc are naturally secure sights, with physical barriers. Most venues will have emergency evacuation strategies in place with staff already briefed in preventing public panic and mass exiting. Major venues will have increased their security planning and provision significantly in answer to threats that events and venues face. Outside events such as festivals need a little bit more effort with security and patrols, planning how perimeters will be secured and properly patrolled.

2. Conducting security assessments- assessing potential threats to and at an event is important when protecting guests. High profile events such as music festivals, charity events or awards with celebrities and other prominent figures present more of a security challenge. Even with the level of security threat is known – a security assessment will highlight weak points in a security plan. When planning an event and putting a plan in place – it’s always good practice to have a contingency plan to ensure the smooth running of your event if anything were to go wrong. If you’re planning an event think ‘How will an uninvited guest be handled? What will happen in the event of a security breech? How will emergency procedures be implemented?’

3. Brief your team – when planning or running an event – communication is key! A breakdown in communication can make a plan fall apart and an event fail. Effectively communicating to your security team what their roles are and the protocols of what to do in an emergency. For example, if there is a need for mass evacuation, which exit are they to staff? Who will liaise with emergency services? How will your security keep guests staff safe?

4. Screening guests and staff – With recent attacks on events, security have had to screen guests and staff at venues. From checking bags to scrutinising tickets, security staff need to be clear and confident in screening both staff and guests when entering a venue.

5. Hire a professional security company – To ensure your event is really safe and secure, hiring a professional security firm can be critical. Professional security firms can perform detailed security assessments on your venue and plans, as well as providing SIA licensed security staff. Professional security firms are fully insured and can create bespoke packages from patrolling to front-of-house staff.

A&R Security Services has over 40 years of experience in the security industry and have worked with a number of customers across South Wales and the South West. We can offer bespoke event security packages that suit your needs. If you would like to know more or would like a quote, contact us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details.