Victoria's summer event season is one of the busiest in British Columbia. From Canada Day celebrations to Jazz Fest, Symphony Splash to Rifflandia, the city comes alive with outdoor events from June through September.

If you're organizing a summer event in Victoria, here's your security planning checklist.

Pre-Event Planning (6-8 Weeks Out)

☐Determine event capacity and expected attendance
☐Review venue requirements for security staffing
☐Check Special Event Permit conditions for security mandates
☐Contact security provider for site assessment
☐Identify access control points and perimeter boundaries
☐Plan for weather contingencies (heat, rain, wind)
☐Coordinate with local police non-emergency line
☐Review BC liquor requirements if serving alcohol

Staffing Assessment (4-6 Weeks Out)

☐Confirm guard-to-guest ratio with security provider
☐Assign roles: access control, roaming patrol, stage area, parking
☐Plan shift schedules for multi-day events
☐Identify supervisor and communication chain
☐Brief security team on event-specific protocols
☐Coordinate with venue staff, bartenders, and volunteers

Day-of Operations

☐Security arrives 60 minutes before doors
☐Conduct walk-through with event coordinator
☐Test communication equipment (radios, phones)
☐Brief all guards on post orders and emergency procedures
☐Verify first aid kit locations and medical response plan
☐Confirm lost-and-found procedures
☐Set up ID check stations if licensed event

During the Event

☐Monitor crowd density and flow
☐Enforce capacity limits at entry points
☐Conduct regular perimeter checks
☐Monitor alcohol consumption and compliance
☐Document all incidents in real time
☐Coordinate with medical and fire safety teams
☐Manage VIP areas if applicable

Post-Event

☐Conduct final sweep of venue
☐Secure any remaining equipment or property
☐Submit incident reports within 24 hours
☐Debrief with event organizer
☐Review footage or logs for improvement opportunities

Book Summer Event Security

Victoria's summer season books up fast. Contact Onward Security early to secure your dates. Transparent flat rates with no hidden fees.