Feature FSM
they are doing what they should be. Discussions about the future threat
picture are very topical, with MI6 Chief Alex Younger recently warning about radicalised fighters returning from the Middle East with skills and connections that make them very dangerous. Last year, the Islamic State actively encouraged terrorist attacks on the UK’s biggest football stadiums, prompting clubs to reflect on their current security strategies.
Turning attention to stadiums
against adiums!
stems
security protocols to protect event-goers, new technologies are emerging that could help secure public spaces, safeguard citizens and deter future attacks.
The uncertainty of terrorism
Terrorist tactics have evolved significantly over the last few decades, with attacks in public places becoming an almost regular occurrence. Of course, memories are short and during periods of relative quiet, interest in investing in security measures wanes. Regardless, the uncertainty surrounding terrorist capability and intent remains, and this situation contributes to the significant risk of being found to be unprepared when the worst happens. There is also a duty of care issue; the public needs to feel secure and those responsible for security need to be confident that
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Until recently, it’s been almost impossible to secure public spaces in a practical and cost- effective way. Consequently, these areas remain highly vulnerable and attractive targets for terrorists. When it comes to football grounds, it can be difficult to perfectly balance functional requirements with security design, without significantly disrupting the flow of people, and stadium operations more generally. While stadium owners readily engage in searching outer perimeters prior to events, and use security to prevent unauthorised access for people and prohibited items, crowds immediately outside the venues remain vulnerable. Intrusive search methods, such as ‘pat down’ searches, will likely have a role to play in preventing prohibited items entering the stadium for some time. However, there’s much more that can be done to protect crowds queuing to enter the stadium from attack. Similarly, there are more efficient and appropriate search methods that could be used to screen VIPs and hospitality guests, where certain threats are less prevalent, in a way that enhances their experience whilst providing an area secure from the most impactful threats.
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