Fall is a busy season for corporate events all across Los Angeles. Planners coordinate all aspects of the venue, catering, trade and long guest lists on a daily basis. Security is however, usually left to the last minute of them all. This guide includes true costs, staffing suggestions, and rules to go by for fall events.
Many LA Events have much larger crowds and longer hours during the fall season. Media, executives, and a lot of the public can be present when a product launches. Holiday parties last all night and can be dangerous for attendees. Each event type should have its own security plan, in other words. Fall also arrives earlier in the season, impacting on parking lot safety areas.
Bookings that are rushed result in fewer guards available and also the higher of the rates. Earlier planning allows your team to shop around for a few quotes, too. Fall also means more vehicles coming to popular spots, delaying the arrival of guests. This makes clear entry points and guard placement more important than usual.
What Changes the Price of Event Security
The price of event security guards in Los Angeles is influenced by numerous factors. There is one factor that makes a difference depending on the number of guests: more guards are needed to cover larger numbers of guests. The setup of the venue is also a factor to consider, particularly if there are numerous doors or open spaces. Extra training makes the cost of armed guards more expensive than unarmed guards.
Event length is another factor that affects price, as guards are more expensive after 9 p.m. VIP protection and bag checks are also an additional cost. Events on the weekends may be more expensive than the quiet weekday bookings. Planners should request a price list, and not just one price. A high rate may also apply to a rush booking that is made within a week. In some cases, multiple day events are offered a discount on a guard shift basis.
How Many Guards Do You Really Need
The number of event security guards required in Los Angeles varies by event. For an indoor conference, a single guard is required for every 100 participants. If a product launch is accompanied by open drinks, a tighter guard ratio is usually required. Additional staff is also required for outdoor events for parking and open exits. Due to this, its value should never be estimated by itself by planners.
Average Cost of Event Security Guards in Los Angeles
Event security guards in Los Angeles charge different prices depending on the type of guard you are getting. However, there should be a supervisor fee for larger events as well. Additional equipment, such as radios or metal detectors, can incur additional costs. A mid-sized event could be $1,500 – $4,000 for security services. An early quote in writing eliminates surprise near the event date. Before signing any contracts, have each company provide you with a detailed explanation of each fee. Many events are also subject to overtime rates if they extend beyond midnight.
Licensing Rules for Event Security in California
All security guards must be issued a valid guard card by California law. This is a card from the state’s security and investigation board office. Armed guards must also be issued their own gun licence if they wish to carry a gun on the premises. A reliable security company will always present this documentation prior to you signing.
This step is essential to safeguard your company in the event that anything goes wrong at the event. It also demonstrates to your visitors and patrons that your event is being organized correctly. Always show licenses before signing any contract. In some cities, permits are required for the use of security personnel at certain events. Planning early to avoid compliance issues.
Common Mistakes Planners Make
Others take too long, and are left with a limited number of guard options. Some select the lowest quote without considering training or actual experience. When it gets dark early many forget to plan for parking lot. Some attend the venue walkthrough and then end up with fewer staff members present on the night.
Others also overlook to confirm guard licenses till the last minute on the day. The little errors can be more expensive than an adequate security budget. A lack of attention to detail can quickly become an issue in a project.
How to Pick the Right Security Company
When selecting a company to provide event security guards in Los Angeles, you should be aware that not all are created equal. If they have not done any corporate events other than concerts, ask that question as well. Client reviews can be a lot of information about their genuine services. Furthermore, make sure that the company has the correct insurance for all of their guards.
The responsiveness of your company is extremely important during this hectic fall season as well. The entire project planning process is always much less stressful in the hands of the right company. A lot of times, just by making a phone call you can tell how well a team communicates! Check on backup guards, too, in case a guard cancels on short notice. Planning for backup is a sign of professionalism and care.
What a Typical Event Security Plan Looks Like
A thorough site plan is typically the first step in a sound plan. The team draws in the map entrances and exits, and any area that requires surveillance. After that, the guards are allocated according to the number of guests and the considered risk.
Guards come to check equipment and radios on event day. They check bags, keep an eye on the crowd and control access at all doors. Should something arise a supervisor intervenes quickly to resolve it. This type of planning ensures events are well managed, safe and on schedule.
Fall Security Checklist for Planners
- Verification of numbers, room set-up, and other pertinent items early
- Choose armed or unarmed guards depending on the risk of the event.
- Request a complete, written estimate and guard numbers
- Ensure all Guards have valid and current licences
- Make sure you have your guards booked three to four weeks in advance
- Prepare for early darkness – plan for good lights and exits!
- Make sure backup staffing if guard cancels
FAQs
What is the amount of guards needed for my event?
Typically 1 guard to 100 people are required for most events. That number is typically raised by outdoor events and serving of alcohol.
When is the best time to schedule event security?
Make your guard bookings as early as 3-4 weeks prior to the event. Earlier bookings means more choices of guards and better rates.
What exactly kind of security is provided at events?
Typically involves crowd watching, bag checks and rapid emergency response assistance. Doors and parking are also often access controlled.
What license do security guards need in California?
All guards are required to have a state board issued guard card. Also, armed guards must have a special license to carry a firearm.
Conclusion
Event security guards in Los Angeles isn’t a daunting task. Most events go off without a hitch with proper planning and guard count. With all the excitement happening during the Fall one of the best ways to get a good price and selection is to book early. The whole team can also benefit from clear planning, as this will bring peace of mind on the day of the event.
Sharp Guard Group has been providing services to corporate clients throughout the San Fernando Valley. Transparent written estimates and fully licensed, trained security personnel are provided to clients. The team also arranges for coverage in case of an absence so that no event is understaffed. Sharp Guard Group is a real local experience given the busy fall season.
