3 tips for setting up crowd control barriers

A good event planner knows there's more to barriers than just throwing up a rope and hoping people will simply behave.

Crowd control barriers are a large part of crowd management. When physically confining people, you've got to be ready for any situation. So, here are a few tips for setting up your own crowd control barrier.‍

Be prepared

Particularly when you're having an event with a high expected turn out rate, the name of the game is to always be prepared. Figuring out and anticipating how many people will show will have a huge affect on your decision making process. Firstly, it will help you decide what type of crowd control barrier to use. Will you need a barricade made of steel, like are commonly used at sporting events, parades, etc, or will you be able to get away with just a velvet rope?

Once you know how many people, you should figure out what shape if any you'd like your barricade to take. A barricade with an 'S' shape, like is common at most movie theaters, will keep a rowdy crowd from pushing the line forward.

Man the crowd

‍Another tip is to always make sure you or staff members always have a presence around the barrier. That could mean someone at the front of the line, or someone at the back, or even in the middle, but there should always be someone there to answer questions or simply to provide a focal figure of authority, should any problems arise. It can provide a calming presence. Leaving your barricade to itself is definitely not advised.‍

Always communicate

Building on the idea of establishing an authority figure for your crowd, my number one tip would be to always communicate. I find that most problems at the entrance can be contained with some good old customer service. If the event is delayed, have someone go out there and explain it. If your crowd is getting restless, send someone out there with a time estimate. A restless crowd can be a dangerous crowd.