With the Super Bowl less than two weeks away, sports venue security is in the forefront. While smaller venues such as high school football fields or basketball courts don’t require the enormous security measures needed at the Super Bowl, site organizers (no matter the size of the venue) must still take precautions to ensure proper behavior by enthusiastic fans and to deter theft or other illegal activities.

A sports venue is more than seats and a playing area. It includes vendor booths, eating spaces, parking lots, bathrooms, walkways, entry points and areas off limits to the public. Security at all sites must be addressed.

Security Surveillance

Live, onsite monitoring of security cameras posted throughout the venue can ensure that when a dangerous or illegal activity is caught on camera, security staff can respond quickly.

Access Control

A major function of a sports venue security guard staff is to make sure only ticketed visitors are allowed in. This means guards need to be stationed at parking lot entrances, turnstiles, gates and other areas where parking passes or tickets are required. Depending on the venue, guards are also responsible for conducting searches, pat-downs and running handbags and other items through metal detectors.

Ensuring a Positive Experience

Fans attending a sporting venue usually have one thing in mind—have a great experience while enjoying the game. To that end, besides the initial security guard interaction at entry, guards should be nonintrusive (while still being visible), only interacting to answer questions and help when needed.

Staff Training

Venue staff often set the tone of an event. They should be trained so every interaction with guests is positive and professional. Emotions often run high during games. Properly trained employees can make the game experience a good one—even if the home team is losing. That said, rules should be set in place so employees know how to react and how to contact security when someone becomes unruly.

Being Ready For All Scenarios

Whether it’s dealing with disappointed/angry fans because of a rainout (or home team loss) or making sure fans are safe because of a man-made or natural emergency, a comprehensive safety and evacuation plan must be in place—and practiced—so all will be ready if the situation arises.