Event Security: Tips for Organisers

More businesses are seeking out the services of a security company – London is one of the biggest global targets for terrorism.

London has always needed a strong security presence. And the capital certainly keeps the private security company sector on its toes. But since the July 7 terrorist attacks that targeted the London transport system, security companies as well as government security forces have been on high alert. And it isn't just the highly trained security company services across London that have had their eyes peeled – in 2004, the government has asked tube passengers and members of the public to be the 'eyes and ears' of police in the war on terrorism.

Security Company, London Patrol

Security measures for London Underground have always been a concern – the tube network has always been a vulnerable spot for the capital, with millions of people passing through its tunnels and trains. Undercover anti-terror police now routinely patrol the London Underground in a bid to prevent attacks. But the fact they've asked the public to be on the look out for suspicious behaviour shows the extent of the threat. Many businesses across the capital are also upping their security budgets to recruit the services of a specialist security company. London is already a popular target for demonstrations and protests, and now there's no doubt security is at the very top of the agenda.

London: A Vulnerable Target

Intelligence-led operations are increasingly needed to combat the security risks the capital faces. Using practical security measures on places like the tube are unworkable – things like metal detectors or scanners would simply be too laborious to enforce on the three million commuters who pass through the Underground system every day.  But London is adamant that the fears of a terrorist strike will not hamper city life. More firms are simply stepping up their use of security companies across London. As a police spokesperson said: "We have to strike a balance between public safety and people going about their business as normal. The easiest thing would be to shut everything but we are not going to do that. London is open for business.”
As any security company in London knows, this isn't the first terrorist threat the capital has faced – the IRA terrorised and disrupted the capitals for years. Islamic terrorist however are more focused on causing fatalities than disruption. In 2007, anti-terrorist officers were working on intelligence that suggested 250 high-risk terror suspects, with 700 medium risk suspects in the UK. Since the July 7 attacks, there have been no major attacks on the capital, although security services remain on high alert that iconic London sights remain a vulnerable target.

McKenzie Arnold Security UK Ltd.: Event Security Services