Hosting an event isn’t always fun and games. It’s important to hire party security because events come with risk factors like theft, vandalism, property damage, and other illegal activity.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What party security does and why you need it
• How to hire security for your event and how much it costs
• Tips for effectively managing party security 
• How Belfry can help party security services

Let’s start by looking at what party security does.

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What does party security do?

‍Clubs have bouncers to keep unruly customers out, so why shouldn’t parties and events have something similar? Party security is vital for keeping your event running not just safely, but also smoothly. Here’s a look at what security can do for your event:‍

• Crowd control: Security helps guests navigate the venue, reducing the risk of overcrowding and crowd crush incidents. They can also direct and guide guests to help them avoid accidents.

• Access management: Security personnel oversee entry points to confirm that only invited guests or ticket holders are allowed inside. This keeps the event private and prevents unwanted guests from disrupting the atmosphere.

• Watch for risks: Guards watch for potential risks, such as suspicious activity or unsafe conditions. By staying alert, they can address problems early and prevent them from escalating.

• Help in emergencies: Party security can assist with medical situations or evacuations, providing critical support until professional help arrives.

• Manage disruptions: Security staff manage disruptive guests with discretion, resolving conflicts without drawing unnecessary attention. 
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Why do you need security for a party?

When you’re planning an event, it’s easy to focus on logistics and overlook security. However, hiring professional security is essential for keeping your guests, property, and event safe as a whole. Here’s why you need event security:

• Keeping guests safe: Large gatherings increase the risk of theft, fights, or accidents. Party security guards address potential issues quickly to keep guests safe.
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• Protecting property: The presence of private event security deters vandalism and other malicious activities, reducing the risk of damage to the venue and the guests’ personal effects.

• Compliance with regulations: Hiring security professionals can help you stay in compliance with local laws and regulations. For example, pros can help you create crowd control measures that comply with the law.

• Meeting insurance or venue requirements: Some venues may require you to hire security for your event, particularly larger or more established ones, to ensure compliance and safety (no one wants a lawsuit!).
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How to hire security for your event

Hiring professional security can help you create a safe, well-organized event. The steps below can help you find the right team for your needs:
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‍1. Assess the event size and type

When you’re putting together a security plan, one of the first things you need to do is take a look at your event and what it might need. Consider the following:‍

• The scale of your event: Do this to determine your security requirements. Smaller private gatherings might only need one or two guards, while larger events could require a dedicated team.

• Risk factors: Things like alcohol service, high-profile guests, and the type of venue can impact the number of guards and the level of security needed.
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2. Choose a reputable security company

It’s important to hire your security staff from a trustworthy, reputable, and licensed company. Follow the steps below: ‍

• Research security firms: Choose those with a track record in private event security, focusing on those experienced with events similar to yours.

• Confirm that the guards are licensed: Hire only guards who are professionally trained, certified, and fully insured to meet industry standards.
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3. Define clear responsibilities

Once your plan is set and your security personnel are hired, the next step is to communicate well with your staff. Try this: ‍

• Communicate your expectations: Express your requirements to the security team well in advance.

• Share key details: Communicate details such as the event layout, guest list, and any specific risks to address. 
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Tips for managing party security effectively

Managing party security involves more than hiring a team — it requires strategic planning and coordination to address potential challenges. Here are some tips to help you manage security effectively:
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‍1. Use technology for coordination

Thanks to the latest advances in technology, security teams can have an easier time communicating and staying on the same page. You can use technology to:‍

• Equip your security team: Give your staff communication tools such as two-way radios or mobile apps to ensure seamless coordination throughout the event.

• Monitor the venue: Track any potential issues in real time using surveillance cameras and event tracking software.

• Keep an eye on the security operation: All-in-one security monitoring platforms like Belfry can help you keep an eye on your security guards and your security operation as a whole.
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2. Plan for various emergencies

Emergencies don’t always have to be crises if you prepare properly. Here’s what you can do to get ready:‍

• Do risk assessments: Conduct a walkthrough of the venue with the team to spot and address vulnerabilities ahead of time.

• Create different response plans: Work with your security team to develop a plan for different scenarios, such as medical emergencies, evacuations, or disruptions.

• Orient your security team: Ensure the team is familiar with emergency exits, first-aid kits, and procedures to handle unexpected situations.
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3. Maintain open communication

Communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings. Make sure to:‍

• Stay in constant communication: Keep an open line of communication with the security team before and during the event.

• Be alert: Encourage security personnel to identify potential risks early and take steps to prevent problems before they arise.

• Keep your team in the loop: Share updates about changes in the schedule, guest list, or other relevant details to help them stay informed.
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4. Keep security visible

Security personnel are visible deterrents to malicious activity and bad behavior, so making sure guests can see them is paramount. Try:‍

• Choosing security posts carefully: Position security guards in visible locations to deter disruptive behavior and provide guests with a sense of safety.

• Setting patrols and rotating staff: Select security patrol routes to keep all areas of the venue protected. Also, consider rotating personnel strategically to cover all critical areas.
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5. Provide clear instructions

Security guards who clearly know their responsibilities are more likely to be more confident when performing their duties. Be clear when you: ‍

• Define responsibilities: Clearly outline the roles of each security team member, such as monitoring entrances, handling crowd control, or assisting with VIPs.

• Set customer service expectations: Define how you want security staff to interact with guests and set guidelines for professionalism and discretion.
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How much is security for a party?

Although it may be costly to hire professional security, investing in pros can provide you peace of mind, ensuring that your guests, event, and venue are protected. In the end, the cost of hiring security is a small price to pay compared to the potential liabilities of having inadequate security measures.

‍Let’s talk about factors affecting cost and the average cost range:
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‍Factors affecting costs

• Event size and type: Larger events or high-profile gatherings require more guards and specialized expertise.
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• Duration of the event: Longer events may require multiple shifts or additional personnel.

• Venue location: Security costs can fluctuate based on local demand and regional pricing. Urban areas or high-demand seasons may have higher rates.

• Special requirements: Events with alcohol service, VIP guests, or heightened security risks may require specialized training or additional equipment, adding to the cost.
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Average cost range

• Average cost per guard: The average cost for professional security guards ranges from $20 to $40 per hour per unarmed guard, depending on their experience and the complexity of the event.
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• Average cost for larger events: For larger events, costs can range from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the number of guards and the duration of the event.
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Benefits of using Belfry for party security services

Hiring the right party security team can help you ensure that your event goes safely and smoothly. By following tips and leveraging platforms like Belfry, managing your event’s security can be simpler and easier.Here’s how Belfry can help:

• Simplified scheduling and coordination: Thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling feature, you can easily assign guards to different event zones and shifts to avoid downtime.
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• Real-time monitoring and attendance tracking: Know your guards are where they should be when they should be. Belfry allows you to keep an eye on your guards using geofencing and live GPS tracking. 
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• Incident reporting: Belfry’s reporting tools allow your security guards to quickly log and document any incidents for post-event review.

Want to see how Belfry can help you manage event security successfully? Schedule a Free Demo Today.