5 Ways Security Guards Safeguard Sports Events

Whether cheering on the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena, the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome, or the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre, Canadian sporting events bring fans from all over the country to cheer on their favourite teams inside packed arenas and stadiums. These large gatherings highlight the need for comprehensive event security to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. 

Event security guards are essential in maintaining order, preventing security threats, and responding to emergencies in the field of sports event security. In this blog, we’ll discuss 5 ways security guards safeguard sporting events and allow for smooth and safe operation.

1. Crowd Control

One of the most important responsibilities of sports event security guards is crowd control. Security guards help manage the flow of people as they enter and exit the venue, ensuring that fans move in an orderly fashion without causing bottlenecks or overcrowding. This includes supervising ticket lines, keeping entry and exit points clear, and helping attendees find their seats.

Lineups can quickly become chaotic, especially when tensions run high or excitement peaks before a big game. Guards keep these lines organized, helping reduce confusion and disorderly behaviour, and ensuring fans enter the venue in a timely manner. During the game, event security guards are also stationed near the field to keep fans off the playing area and out of other restricted spaces during or after the game, preventing potential hazards.

2. Access Point Security

Access point security keeps restricted areas off-limits to unauthorized attendees. Event security guards are stationed at key entrances and exits, performing bag checks, verifying tickets, and ensuring that only those with proper credentials gain entry into the venue or specific areas.

For instance, VIP areas, locker rooms, and media sections are sometimes targeted by overenthusiastic fans. Event security guards ensure that only authorized personnel, players, and staff can access these areas, keeping these areas running smoothly and without disruption.

3. Monitoring for Altercations

Heightened emotions brought on by sporting events, often combined with alcohol sold by the venue, can lead to disagreements and altercations between attendees. Sports event security guards closely monitor crowds outside the venue and spectators in the stands during the game for signs of escalating tension, intervening before situations escalate to disruptive levels. 

The right sporting event security team will be trained in de-escalation techniques to facilitate the best outcomes when mediating conflicts between attendees. Additionally, the presence of uniformed event security guards acts as a deterrent for potential bad behaviour and creates a feeling of safety for attendees. 

4. Emergency Response

Emergencies can happen during any large gathering, from medical incidents to fires and evacuations. Event security guards are trained to respond swiftly and decisively to emergencies, guiding attendees to safety and coordinating with emergency services. Guards work closely with venue staff to enact evacuation procedures, and are able to provide first aid if needed. This buys valuable time in the event of a medical emergency before emergency responders arrive. Learn more about how Blackbird Security guards excel in fire safety in our previous blog post. 

5. Answering Attendee Questions and Concerns

In addition to handling security-related duties, sports event security guards are often a point of contact for fans who may have questions about the event. From helping attendees find their seats to addressing any safety concerns, security guards are there to assist. Providing friendly, professional help enhances the experience of fans and reinforces the sense of safety at a sporting event. Event security guards play a large role in making the venue feel welcoming and comfortable for all attendees.

Blackbird Security Event Security Guards Receive Advanced Training

At Blackbird Security, our event security guards undergo advanced training to prepare them for every scenario. The courses our guards take through our in-house training program include Peaceful De-escalation Training, Standard First Aid, Fire Safety Training, and Customer Service Excellence. All of these courses are integral to the foundation of knowledge needed for event security guards to excel in their roles. 

Our advanced training adds value to our clients’ sports event experiences, providing peace of mind that your event is protected by professionals with a strong security background. 

Sporting Event Security Case Study: Edmonton Riverhawks Baseball

Blackbird Security partnered with the Edmonton Riverhawks to provide security services at their home games at RE/MAX Field. After a successful season, we safeguarded The Hawks’ Canada Day celebration, where over 10,000 fans were in attendance. 

Our goal as the trusted security partner of the Edmonton Riverhawks is to maintain and enhance their energetic and friendly atmosphere, creating a space where all fans feel safe and appreciated.

This work begins well in advance of the first pitch, with our team arriving to run through their pre-game checklist. Doors open for fans approximately 90 minutes before the game begins, and our team works diligently to ensure the integrity of the outer perimeter. Our job is helped by the advanced setup at RE/MAX Field. This 9,000-seater stadium is one of Western Canada’s most impressive baseball stadiums, offering a wide variety of amenities and concessions for fans to enjoy during breaks in play.

Our guards, who usually number six to ten on a gameday, manage pedestrian flow, watching out for blockages and ensuring the smooth passage of fans to their seats. In an effort to maintain the convivial family atmosphere these games are known for, our team closely watches for anti-social behaviour throughout the event. Guards lean on their advanced training in areas such as conflict resolution and incident de-escalation to defuse potential flashpoints.

As highly visible security guards in uniform, the Blackbird Security team are happy to mingle among fans and answer any questions they may have while providing directions and assistance. We understand that our security guards are ambassadors for our client’s brand, so we provide them with customer service training to ensure they can handle this increasingly important aspect of their roles. The vast majority of interactions a security guard has in their day-to-day role aren’t with criminals. They’re with members of the public looking for assistance. It’s this approach that has helped Blackbird Security stand out as Canada’s number one security provider.

Partner With Canada’s Number One Event Security Provider

Whether you’re seeking event security in Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Toronto, or another major Canadian city, our team of security experts will provide best-in-class service for your venue and attendees. At Blackbird Security, we have extensive experience safeguarding major events, from sports to live concerts. Get in touch with us through the form below to get started.