When someone mentions crowd control, many people think of walls of police with plastic shields, helmets and batons facing off against angry civilians. These confrontations rarely end peacefully as the appearance of the militaryesque police force exacerbates and enrages the already agitated crowd. Because these confrontations often happen at protests, there's not much thought that goes into preventing the violence and anger through alternative crowd control methods. Fortunately, as a business, you can plan for and implement constructive ways to keep people calm, happy, and in line. From stanchions with retractable barrier belt attachments to carpets, there are many great ways available to make sure your crowds are well behaved.

Finding a Number

A number machine is easy enough to install and allows people to know who will be called next. With a little slip of paper in their hands, people will wait more patiently than if they have to fight about who's next. It also gives them the freedom to wander or sit if you have the appropriate facilities.

Finding the Path

A simple red carpet communicates to everyone, not only where they are supposed to go, but how they are supposed to stay on the carpet. It's ingrained in our society; people want to walk the red carpet. Let it be your first choice for crowd control.

Finding the Place

Adding a stanchions barrier with a retractable belt will improve the success rate of the carpet and keep people from drifting off of it. Signs that point out the beginning and the end of the line will also help. 

Finding Help

If you need a little more security, you can add people to the mix. Security guards are good for protection and safety, but uniformed employees are better for making people feel comfortable. Be sure that whoever you have along the perimeter knows how to answer questions and is friendly.

A Combination Plate

Combining a carpet with stanchions with retractable barrier belt attachments and security guards or employees who are ready to answer questions makes for the most effective crowd control for most businesses. There are times when even these measures won't be enough. Just be sure that everyone knows what to expect and keep everyone informed about what's going on, and you should have an easier time of it. With managed expectations and cool heads, everyone can come out a winner and stay safer on your property.