How Much Does It Cost to Hire Security for an Event? Event planning involves a series of steps that culminate in having an event location that is safe, comfortable, and accommodating for guests. Hiring security is often essential when planning both private and public events, particularly events that draw large crowds. From conventions and trade shows to ceremonies and team building activities, having a security team onsite provides enhanced safety for guests and peace of mind for event planners. An event planner’s first question may concern how much it costs to hire security.
The cost of security for an event will vary. According to CostHelper, Inc., security officers can cost anywhere between $10 and $100 per hour. Factors including whether the officers are armed or unarmed, the level of experience of security officers, and the size, location, and duration of the event each figure into the calculation of the final price. The number of officers required will also impact cost; low-profile events such as a cocktail party may only need one officer while large parties or festivals may require multiple officers.
Factors That Influence The Cost Of Event Security Staffing
Security officers provide many benefits during events, to include theft prevention, crowd control, crime deterrence, and guest protection and have training for the appropriate methods for the de-escalation of critical situations. While some event planners may be hesitant to hire a security team due to the extra expense, having well-trained security professionals on-site can significantly lower event liability risks.
Security is considered an essential expense for any event that is high-risk or that is expected to draw a high number of attendees. Outlined below is a closer look at the factors that influence the cost of security for an event:
Armed vs. Unarmed Security
Most professional security officers are licensed, insured, and well-trained; however, not all are armed. Unarmed security officers are a popular option when the threat level is low, such as in a school setting. Armed security officers may be the better choice if there is a high level of risk if the safety of staff or visitors is a concern or when there are high-value assets at the event.
Armed security officers must meet state licensing requirements to carry a firearm, as well as successfully complete extensive firearm training. Therefore, the cost of an armed security officer is usually more than an unarmed officer.
Event Security Experience
How much experience a security officer has will ultimately impact the cost of services. Many leading security companies hire security officers who are retired or off-duty police officers and who may also have prior military experience.
Having a background in law enforcement or military demonstrates experience and training as a first responder. If a security officer has extensive on-the-job experience, the cost of services for an event may be higher compared to a security officer with less experience.
Time & Place Of Event
The time and place of an event can directly influence the cost. Events that are held in the evening or night time hours generally cost more than events held during the day as the threat of theft, vandalism and other crimes tends to be higher at night.
The establishment in which the event is being held may also impact price as some venues require a certain number of security guards based on the estimated number of attendees. Having sufficient security for an event reduces liability, diminishes the potential for lawsuits, and ensures overall safety.
Size Of Event
Larger events will typically require multiple security officers which can significantly increase the cost of security services. When estimating the cost of hiring security for an event, consider the size of the venue and the number of attendees. It is important to hire enough security officers to safely control the crowd. Ideally, there should be security at every exit and in every room of the venue.
If alcohol will be served at the event, extra security may be necessary to maintain a safe and orderly environment for all guests. Review the guest list when determining how many security guards will be needed to abide by the property’s security rules and regulations and to minimize the risk of personal injury and property damage.
Reach Out To A Professional Security Company
Before hiring security for any type of event, it is important to understand what costs influence security services. Hiring security for an event is an excellent investment that can actually save money by acting as a strong deterrent against crime.
To ensure the safety of guests and prevent problems including theft and property damage, it is important to have trained and insured security officers with unique skills and security knowledge. For more information about hiring security for an event, reach out to the security professionals at APG.