Securing Sports Venues: Addressing Threats and Implementing Effective Measures

Abstract

Institutional Affiliation 26th April 2021 [Name] Sports environment has been facing serious venue insecurity as a result of increasing security threats all over the world. The emotional enthusiasm that holds fans is a characteristic of sports culture leading to intense celebrations and aggressive squabbles. Fan behaviour has been for many years a top concern in sports security AB, 2017). Today, the sports environment has evolved with new threats arising forcing specific sports venues to double-check their security policies and reforms. Events In 2004, the basketball game between Pacers and Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills, led to a serious scenario of venue threat. During the final minutes of the game, a brawl between players began but was stopped indefinitely. However, after stopping the fight, a fan took the opportunity and threw a drink at one of the Pacers players, known as Ron Artest (AB, 2017). This action intensified the fight between players and fans since Ron pushed his way through the crowds to start a confrontation. The outcome left nine players suspended while five fans were convicted with criminal offences. In 2013, Boston Marathon experienced venue threatening event. At the finish line, two bombs exploded claiming three lives and causing over 200 injuries from spectators and participants (AB, 2017). The Marathon administration publicized many charges to the venue security of the race. Security measures The National Basketball Association formulated new security policies after the historical brawl. It reduced the size and number of drinks that can be purchased by a fan at a specific time and stopped selling of alcohol subsequent to the third quarter of the game (AB, 2017). Furthermore, every team were to introduce not less than three security guards that separate players and fans. In 2005, the execution of Fan Code Conduct Policy was put in place. Boston Marathon Bombing contributed to implementation of security measures that would protect participants and spectators of the marathon. The number of security personnel during the race was increased and policies prohibiting backpacks, heavy clothes and glass container at the marathon were reinforced (AB, 2017). The NFL formulated new policies for 2013-2014 seasons to limit the bags permitted into the stadiums. Solutions during ancient times Ancient Rome controlled crimes through a police force known as Vigiles for cases like riots, and unimportant crimes. In case of the brawl between players and fans at The Palace of Auburn Hills, Rome can use this police force to control the situation (Dunn, 2021). The players and fans responsible for the brawl...