The horrific shooting on the Las Vegas Strip has brought a focus on event security in the Valley, with people wondering what could be done to ensure that big events taking place in Phoenix will stay safe, after the shooting. The Arizona Diamondbacks will play at Chase Field, with some 50,000 fans expected to attend. In light of the huge crowd that is expected inside and outside the stadium, the challenge is providing a safe environment, without making security too heavy-handed.
If the Arizona Diamondbacks are planning any enhanced security measures, in wake of the mass shooting, they are not saying much beyond the following:
“While we are unable to give specifics on our plan for security purposes, our fans can rest assured that we have been in touch with local, state and federal law enforcement for more than a month.” At Steel Indian School Park, the site of the Lost Lake Festival from October 20 to 22, planners of the event said they will “continue to work closely with Phoenix law enforcement officials, to ensure we host the safest event possible.” Meanwhile, Col. Frank Milstead, the Director of the Arizona Department for Public Safety (DPS), said there’s a tradeoff when it comes to security.
“Whether it is Diamondbacks or Cardinals or Suns or get on airplane, how much inconvenience do you want to go through to get into a venue or an airplane, to ensure safety?” said Col. Milstead. Still, there are some precautions that are easier to design into a venue, such as how to get out if there’s an attack. “People will do what they did last night, stampede, so you need to somehow control that,” said security expert Robert Sollars.
Experts also said “If you see something, say something” is always good advice. Vigilance may be called for, but some say people should not be afraid to go out, and have a good time. “We are Americans. We love our freedom and our music, and we will go and we won’t let terror change our way of life,” said Col. Milstead.
