2024 In Review - 9 Incidents and Why Event and Venue Managers Should Know About Them
Towards the end of each calendar year, I spend some time looking back on the last 12 months to reflect on and learn from all that has happened....
3 min read
Elizabeth Rupert : Sep 12, 2023 11:52:50 AM
Reunification procedures at sports and special events are of paramount importance for the safety and well-being of the attendees, during both routine and emergency operations. During normal conditions, a well-developed individual reunification system provides peace of mind to attendees and enhances the overall fan experience by allowing everyone to enjoy the event without worrying about the well-being of their companions. Following an emergency, particularly one requiring evacuation, efficient and effective reunification can reduce trauma and increase the overall safety of those impacted. When considering procedural development, it is helpful to classify these types of operations as micro- and macro-level reunification.
Micro-level reunification occurs at the individual or small group level, whereby event staff help guests locate and reunite with companions following a temporary and unexpected separation. Establishing clear and efficient micro-level reunification protocols ensures that lost or separated individuals, particularly children, can be swiftly and safely reunited with their loved ones. A rapid micro-level reunification system also helps to ensure that venues are accessible to guests with a wide range of needs.
In addition to careful planning and training, strategies for enhancing micro-level reunification procedures include:
Macro-level reunification might occur less frequently than micro-level operations, but it is a critical phase of emergency response that requires meticulous planning. In addition to reducing the psychological stress of separation and controlling the movement of individuals on-scene, reunification is also the signifier that activities are moving towards recovery. When done well, venues begin macro-level reunification as soon as it is safe to do so, utilizing in-house staff and resources to connect impacted guests with loved ones in a sensitive and organized manner.
We recommend venues implement these tactics into their macro-level reunification and emergency operations plans:
Whether completed on a micro- or macro-level, reunification is about more than reuniting loved ones; it’s about doing so with empathy, efficiency, and a commitment to the well-being of all involved. These procedures are a testament to the commitment of event organizers to the safety and security of guests and staff.
If you would like to chat about designing a reunification procedure for your organization, schedule a call with us
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