The time of pumpkins patches, corn mazes, and apple orchards are upon us, which also means a slew of fun fall festivals hosted by churches, schools, municipalities, and other community-based organizations are marked in the calendar. If you’re planning a festival to welcome the change of season, be sure that you are following the proper protocols to ensure a safe and secure event.
Keep a clear, trip-free path
Decorations, vendor booths, and electrical cords can all become safety hazards if not laid out properly. It’s important that your layout provides adequate space for people to easily and freely move around when things become a bit more crowded. You will also need to keep handicap accessibility in mind, making sure not to block any ramps and providing enough space for people with wheelchairs and other medical equipment to safely and comfortably move about your event.
Remove potential electrical hazards
Packed with food stands, artist booths, bounce houses, music stages, carnival rides, and more, fall festivals generally require a lot of power from electrical generators. Make sure all vendors are using properly rated electrical cords and keep them safely tucked away or covered to prevent tripping or fraying. Additionally, keep outlets away from water, oil, or other hazardous areas. You should also make sure generators are placed outside in well-ventilated spaces, preferably away from walking paths to prevent exposure to carbon monoxide.
Honor capacity limits and other fire codes
If your event is indoors, you may want to double-check what the allowed capacity is for the space. Overcrowding is not only uncomfortable for festival-goers but can impede access for emergency personnel if an incident occurs. Fire departments place limits on how many people are allowed in a building so that people can quickly and safely exit the building in the event of an emergency, preventing panic-induced trampling and other injuries. In addition to limiting your guest list, check that fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency exits are all up-to-date and functioning.
Hire a security team
Having security personnel present at your event can help to quickly address escalating situations before they become a larger problem. This is especially important if your event offers alcoholic beverages, runs late into the night, or is expecting a large turn-out. Sometimes, people can become too intoxicated, inappropriate, or overly aggressive to volunteers, staff members, and other guests. Having a security presence will not only help to handle these situations but will also deter people from acting out in the first place.
Installing professional security cameras
One of the most important things you can do to make sure you’re hosting a fun and safe festival is to have a quality, professionally-installed video surveillance system. Maryland Security Professionals specializes in customizing, installing, and maintaining commercial and residential surveillance camera systems for virtually any type of security need. We offer a variety of options for festivals, including mobile surveillance systems that are powered by solar panels and batteries, and wireless surveillance capabilities that allow you and your security team to check live video feed straight from smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
Are you looking to improve the security of your Fall Festival? Call Maryland Security Professionals today for a free consultation and see how we can help you ensure a safe and fun-filled environment for you and your guests. Our team of experienced professionals has been installing residential and commercial security systems throughout the mid-Atlantic region for the last 14 years and can help you develop a customized surveillance camera solution that fits your needs and budget.
Additional resources:
- Complete Guide to Fall Festivals in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia, https://sunshinewhispers.com/fall-festivals-in-maryland/
- Funtober, Fall Maryland Festivals, https://www.funtober.com/festivals/maryland/