PARK SECURITY
”The topography of many theme makes it easy for the terrorist to move quickly and unseen”
aggressor and for the public. For example, wayfinding helps the public to escape but also for the aggressor to move swiftly between areas as these are well defined. The aggressor, having carried out
reconnaissance, is likely to be familiar with all aspects of the park and therefore will probably not attack from a usual perspective. They will identify idiosyncratic elements which will be different for each target.
Clear search protocols are important not only as a deterrent but also to ensure that all those visiting realise the reason for high level security and. secondly, that anyone trying to bring articles into the park which are not permitted has these removed. This adds to the peace of mind of both the public and park management.
REGULARITY OF PRACTICE Lack of variety of working practice and similar timeframes for day-to-day activities need to be avoided. If an aggressor can find a specific period when staff are not on post or other activities that take place on a regular basis, this can be used as an opportunity window. Interoperability with the police in the first place and fire and ambulance services in the second, must be of paramount importance in any event of this nature taking place. In many cases, a permanent emergency liaison team is either on site or able to be quickly
assembled. Ease of access onto site for non-public must be carefully controlled and a pass system for contractors and sub-contractors applied. It is also important to scrutinise candidates carefully when employing staff as the insider threat is always a possibility.
PLANNING AND MONITORING
Pre, during and post monitoring is key when it comes to planning and management, checking before the park opens that everything is in place and checked before the public enter. Ensuring that the site is completely sterile plays an important part in ensuring that no issues are identified before the park opens, even if this means holding the gates until staff and management are sure everything is correct.
A scenario-based learning exercise conducted by my company, Mind Over Matter, in April 2015 focused on a rollercoaster accident and how to plan and manage in such a crisis situation. Just over a month later, The Smiler accident at took place at Alton Towers. Many of those on the programme e-mailed us afterwards asking why more people did not sign up for such activities as it had helped them with parallel issues in their own organisation.
THE FIVE RS The following points will determine how much resilience your park or attraction has in the face of a terrorist attack. Firstly, recognise patterns. Be aware of things that you have seen before which have led to some kind of incident. Report. Everything must be logged, near misses, suspicious incidents and other activities. Reiterate. Briefings must contain all of the relevant information but be clear and to
PARK WORLD Handbook & Buyers Guide 2017
the point otherwise it won't all sink in. Reflection. Running about in circles trying to make decisions on the move is not the best approach to a crisis. Working with the experts who reflect on previous issues, identifying a way forward and reappointing the plan accordingly is. Lastly, respond. Make sure that your plan is measured. If you send all of your resources to a minor incident you will not have full resources to deal with another incident which might be more important.
In conclusion, resilience is everything and working alongside your internal and external partners is key. Make sure that you plan well, look at recent trends, expect the unexpected, practice emergency drills and always be on your guard because the only screams you want to hear at your park are the screams of joy from guests enjoying the rides.
Professor Chris Kemp (pictured) is CEO of Mind Over Matter (
momconsultancy.com) and has worked in the festival, events, education and attractions industry for over three decades. His expertise in the human/dynamics interface make him a much sought after consultant in the event, transport, arena, policing and security sectors.
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