While no plan is foolproof, outdoor events are difficult to secure due to lack of solid structures.
Law enforcement at the Gilroy Garlic Festival relied on security best practices, such as tall fences and metal detectors, and yet they couldn’t prevent a gunman from killing 3 people and injuring 12 others. This attack illustrates the difficulties that are present when planners are trying to provide a safe but accessible event for large crowds.
Jason Porter, Vice President of Pinkerton, spoke with USA Today about the challenges outdoor event planners are facing. “The unique thing about a festival-type environment is the planners have to walk a very fine line. Obviously they’re responsible for providing a secure and safe environment, but they also have to have an open environment to draw the crowd. It’s increasingly a challenge, especially in an outdoor-type event.’’
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