Mitigating Risk During High-Profile Conventions

Craig Matsumoto, Senior Vice President, Risk Advisory and Consulting Services

As with every Presidential election, the Republican and Democratic National Conventions are scheduled for this summer. Safety and security precautions are always at the forefront of these events, but in light of the July 13 attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, they are being increased to new heights. Given the high-profile nature of these events, which draw politicians, delegates, activists, media, and protesters, they can serve as a magnet for hostile actors intent on causing harm.

Last week, Allied Universal published the 2024 Special Report on Physical Security During an Election, which provides security insight and guidance for organizations operating within the footprint of large-scale events like the RNC and DNC to protect their people, property, and brand.

The following are key strategic reminders to help mitigate risk.

• Stay Engaged with Local Law Enforcement | Maintain an open dialogue with local law enforcement and first responders to facilitate information exchange. Keeping these lines of communication open allows organizations to collect and share real-time intelligence to properly assess current risk. >
• Tap Social Media for Intel | Monitor social media and news outlets for developments that can impact your organization and employees. Partner with outside experts who provide robust real-time intelligence on the ever-changing threat spectrum to understand events that can affect your organization.
• Maintain a Hardened Appearance | To prevent hostile activity, create a formidable presence for your building, campus, and perimeter. Review camera surveillance regularly, ensure proper lighting, and maintain physical access systems. These will serve as visual deterrents and help you stay ahead of potential threats.
• Consider Onsite Security Professionals | Effective and proven mitigation tools—including firearms and explosive detection canines and well-trained armed security professionals—can provide a heightened security posture and real-time response support in case of an incident.
• Review Security Protocols and Response | A Routine review of your organization’s security and emergency response plans will identify any potential gaps and where modifications may be required. Identify the chain of communication should an incident arise. Designate spokespeople and prepare key messages in advance to ensure consistent and accurate communication with the media, customers, and stakeholders who may need crisis management.
• Communicate and Train Employees | Provide relevant and meaningful information to employees. This can include advance notice regarding travel advisories, road closures, transportation options, and potential disruptions during the convention period. Foster a security-aware culture within your organization through training sessions to prepare employees for various scenarios, such as potential evacuations, protests, or emergencies.

Protecting people, property, and assets requires acknowledging vulnerability gaps and taking steps to apply consistent solutions. To speak with one of our subject matter experts, click here.