Podcasts about nightclub security consultants

Security Plans  for your Bar.     The tragic mass shooting in Las Vegas this week have people realing.  It was just an awful, disgusting act, but you don’t need me to tell you that.  We send our best wishes to those affected,directly and indirectly.  I would imagine among other repercussions that this will affect tourism  in Las Vegas for some time, and will hurt our brother and sister Bartenders and other Hospitality workers in the pocketbook.   This is not the place to discuss the event itself. One issue that we have never talked about on this show is security.   I am certainly no expert on this subject, but it needs to be discussed.   Bars, restaurants, music venues etc are so called “soft targets”.  They are vulnerable, large numbers of people gather there.  We saw this in the Paris attacks, in Orlando now Las Vegas.   Ideally every business should write a disaster plan.  There are security consultants that can help with this, or you can write something up yourself, and I’m going to give you a free tool that almost automates the process.   One easy and practically free thing every bar should have, but many don’t is a LOG.  Everyday at the end of a shift the manager or bartender or both should write in a log book.  Even if nothing unusual happened, write that!  This is really important for legal reasons, for example - if you have to cut somebody off, or there is a fight or whatever.  There needs to be documentation.  Some places will even include things like the weather or seemingly unrelated details, but they can become important in the future.   The reason to do old school hand written logs in a physical notebook, as opposed to Google Docs or some other computerized solution is that these notes thoreticly can’t be altered after the fact.  The book needs to have pages that are not easily removed, so it needs to have bound pages - a spiral notebook is no good. Next we can talk about exits. In the Las Vegas attack many many of the injuries were attributed to people getting trampled or hurt while trying to climb walls and other things like that. I was watching a lot of CNN, in the hours and days after the Las Vegas attack.  One expert pointed out that human nature dictates people will always try to get out the same way they came in.  As I’m sure you know, the Las Vegas shooting occurred at an outdoor venue.  There were 4 gates used for entering, but 3 other large exits on the opposite side.  As in an airplane always locate the exit nearest you, keeping in mind it may be behind you - or maybe the opposite way from where you came in.  I heard one security expert say, “when I enter a place I’m already trying to figure how to get out”.  In fact the advice from a US Government document that I’ll talk more about later, suggests finding the closest 2 exits. Keeping this in mind, if there were ever an incident where you work and you had to evacuate your guests, you may need to direct them to exits they are not aware of, including possibly through the back of the house. Here in the U.S. we have the Federal Government agency OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and according to their officail web site “Almost every business is required to have an emergency action plan (EAP).”  Luckily on their web site you can Create Your Own Emergency Action Plan (EAP).  This is the free tool I mentioned a minute ago, and of course we will have a link on BaretenderJourney.net This is their description of an EAP: “An emergency action plan (EAP) is usually a written document required by particular OSHA standards. For smaller organizations, the plan does not need to be written and may be communicated orally if there are 10 or fewer employees.  The purpose of an EAP is to facilitate and organize employer and employee actions during workplace emergencies. The elements of the plan must include, but are not limited to: Means of reporting fires and other emergencies Evacuation procedures and emergency escape route assignments Procedures to be followed by employees who remain to operate critical plant operations before they evacuate Procedures to account for all employees after an emergency evacuation has been completed Rescue and medical duties for those employees who are to perform them Names or job titles of persons who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan” It goes on to say that most small and medium-sized entities will get their basic plans from this system in 10 to 15 minutes.  There is no charge for this.  So that’s a great resource and of course we’ll have links in the show notes. This is just the tip of the iceberg with this stuff. I referenced a Federal Government document a few minutes ago.  Its from the Department of Homeland Security and its called “Active Shooter - How to Respond”.  The conventional wisdom in this situation is Run, Hide, Fight.  This document details that.  Also if you go to youtube and search for Run, Hide, Fight you’ll find a video that is definitely worth watching. Back to the document - it says “Remember that customers and clients are likely to follow the lead of employees and managers during an active shooter situation”. I’ll read through some of this, and of course link to it on BartenderJourney.net Evacuate So this is Run part. If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises. Be sure to: Have an escape route and plan in mind Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow Leave your belongings behind Help others escape, if possible Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be Keep your hands visible Follow the instructions of any police officers Do not attempt to move wounded people Call 911 when you are safe   Hide Out: If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less likely to find you. Your hiding place should: Be out of the active shooter’s view Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e., an office with a closed and locked door) Not trap you or restrict your options for movement To prevent an active shooter from entering your hiding place: Lock the door Blockade the door with heavy furniture If the active shooter is nearby: Lock the door Silence your cell phone, and I’ll add consider turning off vibration too.  It takes a few steps and might be difficult to remember in a stressful situation.  In iOS 9 and above you can go to Settings/General/Accessibility/Vibration/Off.  You probably don’t want to shut the phone off completely because  you’ll want the option of communication, plus sometimes the phone makes a bunch of noise as it turns off...so just something to keep in mind.  Back to the list of “If the shooter is nearby” Turn off any source of noise (i.e., radios, televisions) Hide behind large items (i.e., cabinets, desk) Remain quiet Try to Remain calm Dial 911, if possible, to alert police to the active shooter’s location If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen.   I’ll add that as I record this in October 2017 the ability of 911 operators to pinpoint the caller’s exact location seems to have vastly improved over the last 3 or 4 years.  In an article I read on a website called govtech.com the operator is get the location of the cell towers within seconds of a call coming in.  A 911 dispatch trainer named Matt Langley is quoted as saying “If a phone is Phase 2 compliant -- most newer phones are -- the phones have better capabilities in sending cell towers GPS coordinates”.  “Then, dispatchers communicate with that tower, which communicates with the phone”.  “The caller's location if found from the cell tower is shown on an online map in front of the dispatcher. Not all states or counties have that capability” Back to the Homeland Security Document.  Last resort - Fight. Take action against the active shooter As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active shooter by: Acting as aggressively as possible against him/her Throwing items and improvising weapons Yelling Committing to your action Disclaimer:  Remember this is not me telling you to do this, its the US Federal Gov’t’s Department of Homeland Security.   When Law Enforsement Arrives There is more on the document - I won’t read it all, but basicly raise your hands - these guys just got here, they don’t know what’s going on - we don’t want to put them in a situation where they have to make a split second decision resulting in a mistake.  Of course follow their commands.  Understand weird stuff could happen, like they could potentially throw you to the ground or something for your own safety.  Don’t get in their way by yelling or screaming at them for help, just quickly exit the same way they came in. There are more recommendations for Preparing for and Managing an Active Shooter Situation.  I’ll let you read through them all, but the one that stuck out to me is to “activate the emergency notification system when an emergency situation occurs”.  Now in a small bar its going to be pretty obvious to all that something is going on, but imagine a Hotel or even large restaurant with multiple floors and a noisy kitchen in the back.  Something to think about. Alright, last week I started a segment called “Unrelated Podcast Suggestion of the Week”.  Well we are changing it already.  This week its a related podcast and more than a suggestion I’m going to call this homework for you.  The podcast is Nightclub Security.  It looks like they only produced 21 episodes with the last one posted in 2014, but its a great show from the guys at Nightclub Security Consultants, who I met at the Nightclub & Bar Show a few years back.  In particular, I’d like to you listen to episodes 4 and 5  called 6 Important Tips to Manage a Major Violent Incident in Your Venue and Ep. 005 – How to Document a Major Incident in Your Venue respectively. As the name implies, they do Security Consultancy as well as bouncer training both in California and online.  You can find them at nightclubsecurity.com Our “Related Podcast Homework of the week” is brought to you by Sudio wireless bluetooth headphones.  Use the coupon code “BartenderJourney” for 15% off these great headphones at sudiosweden.com or use the link in the show notes.  These headphones sound great, look really sharp and are well made.  I’ve been wearing the over ear model constantly in bluetooth mode when listening to music and podcasts.  They come with an aux cord so you can plug them in if you want to, which if you think about it is a great feature, because if you are on a long trip and you exhaust the batteries you can plug them in and they will work until you get a chance to charge them again!  They have wireless in ear or earbud models too.  Check them out and remember to use coupon code “BartenderJourney” for 15% off and to show your support of this show. Don’t forget to do your homework - I’ll be grading it!  Listen to the Nightclub Security Podcast Ep 4&5.  We didn’t do a Cocktail of the Week, because after watching the news this week, I think I’ll just have a whiskey..neat. Here’s our toast: Here’s a health to everyone, Peace on earth, and heaven won.

Danny Meyers and Ilan Fong interview Robert Smith from Nightclub Security Consultants about stopping gun violence in our clubs.

In this episode, Tab goes on his own soap box about his ordeal with the dreaded cell phone upgrade.  Show guest features Robert C. Smith, former cop, president and founder of Nightclub Security Consultants based out of San Diego California.  They are providing training on how to diffuse, handle, and prevent all types of crazy situations in the bar/nightclub scene...Tab and Z need to harness this power to the HOA scene as well! Weekly guest Bob Gourley of Ask Mister Condo gives his take on a situation that Tab and Z needed answers on...it's purely hypothetical though...maybe! For more information on Robert C. Smith and Nightclub Security Consultants go to: nightclubsecurity.com  Be sure to like them on https://www.facebook.com/bouncertraining  Also check out their podcast with host Manny Marquez at: https://www.nightclubsecurity.com/podcast-and-blog   As always, ask mister condo anything at www.askmistercondo.com  Got questions, he got answers!  

Just how many security guards should your venue have on staff at any given time? We here at Nightclub Security Consultants get asked that question often. In this episode we give you some great guidelines on determining just how you should staff your security team.[...] 

Should You Have Armed Security at Your Venue? Robert and Manny discuss this sometimes challenging and controversial topic. We find that the trend in the industry is that things are getting more violent for bar and club owners. Are you thinking about hiring an armed guard? What are some of the reasons to consider hiring an arm guard for your venue? If you decide to hire arm guards what are some of the things you should do and think about? Shout-outs! Thank you to Henry’s Pub, , Tavern at the Beach, barley mash, Sandbar Sports Grill, West Coast Tavern Mr. Peadbody’s, and Cali Comfort for participate in our most recent California PSO Training Event hosted by Typhoon Saloon. Kudos to Sara Berns, Executive Director of Discover Pacific Beach and Chair of the Pacific Beach Hospitality Task Force, for her work on implementing a new program in which local bar and nightclub security guards wear day-glow vests at closing time. This gives the perception of a common force and allows the local police department to easily identify the guards when an incident occurs. In The News Two men shot by security guards in Dorchester, South Carolina nightclub parking lot After suspects of firing shots in the club parking lot were asked to put their weapons down and refused, two security guards opened fire on the suspects. One of the suspects was hospitalized with a gunshot wound and the other refused medical attention after a gunshot grazed his leg. Today’s Topic  Should You Have Armed Security at Your Venue? One question Nightclub Security Consultants gets asked quite often in whether or not a bar or club should hire armed security. It is a delicate matter that cannot be taken lightly. There are quite a few considerations when making the decision. Also, is it the best decision, or, is there something else a venue should be doing first before entertaining the idea of hiring armed guards? There are huge liability issues that come associated with hiring arm guards.   If you do have armed guards or are considering hiring armed guards here are some considerations.  1.    Do local and State laws permit armed guards in an alcohol service business? 2.     What are the training and certification requirements for armed guards? 3.     Is the company you are hiring the guard from reputable and in good standing? 4.     Has the guard been properly vetted? 5.     Is the guard legally licensed to be an armed guard? Check with the proper enforcement authority to make sure the guard is carrying a valid license. 6.     Perform an independent background check on the guard with a reputable company like InteliCorp.net 7.     Perform reference checks on the guard. 8.     Interview the guard to make sure he will work well with you and your existing security team. 9.     Make sure you insurance policy allows for armed guards. Many do not. 10.   Is an armed guard the right answer? Are there other steps you should be taking first?  Check out Robert C. Smith’s recent blog Armed vs. Unarmed Guards for more resources. Just a reminder before listening in – Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez are NOT attorneys.  The information they share in the podcast is general advice and shouldn’t replace specific, state and venue specific legal advice.  In the event you need legal advice or help, please a professional in your area.  Nightclub Security Consultants Upcoming Dates May 12th to 13th, 2014 National HOST Platinum (2 day / 12 hour) Washington DC Area | Open enrollment– at The Shadow Room  – Go here for more info.   May 21st to 22nd, 2014 International Responsible Hospitality Conference Edmonton, Alberta – Go here for more info. ***Reminder – Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez are not attorneys.  This show’s topics are discussed in general terms.  We highly recommend seeking and consulting a legal professional. If you have questions or comments email us at questions@nightclubsecurity.com Visit our website at www.nightclubsecuity.com Like us on facebook @BouncerTraining Follow us on twitter @bouncercoach https://www.nightclubsecurity.com/ https://www.nightclubsecurity.com/training http://apps.nightclubsecurity.com/podcasts/ California Proprietary Security Officer Training - PSO

In this week’s show, Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez discuss the important topic of Nightclub and Bar Civil Liability – Part 2, the follow up to last episode to Nightclub and Bar Civil Liability Part 1. We are happy to see that we are getting downloads for across the globe - from Alaska to Australia.  Very exciting for us! Please share us with industry friends, co-workers, and colleagues. Your Feedback A big thank you to Anthony Krout for his glowing comment in response to last week’s episode. July 2, 2013 at 12:12 am “THANK YOU!!!!!! Mr. Robert Smith and Mr. Manny Marquez thanks for the Pod Cast!!! Its great that you took the time to send this to me, so I LISTENED to it and it was a great refresher to the fabulous training program that I sat through for 16 hours and another voluntary 5 1/2 hours when my security staff went through it!! It always shocks me when I go to other bars and see that some of this training never sank in!!! It is sad that our county ran out of funding to supply the training for free, but it is worth paying for to keep everyone safe and educated!!!! Thank you again, and I cant wait for the next Pod Cast!!! FOR ANYONE WHO READS THIS, GO TO THE TRAINING ITS AWESOME!!!!! THE TRAINING WILL MAKE YOU THINK A LITTLE DIFFERENT ABOUT GOING ANY WHERE IN PUBLIC!!!! IT WILL OPEN YOUR EYES TO A LOT OF THINGS YOU NEVER THOUGHT OF BEFORE!!!!!!!” In The News! Robert and Manny discussed news out of St. Charels Illinois where Bouncer Sues Patrons. It’s unusual for the industry and raises some interesting points.  Just a reminder before listening in – Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez are NOT attorneys.  The information they share in the podcast is general advice and shouldn’t replace specific, state and venue specific legal advice.  In the event you need legal advice or help, please a professional in your area. Today’s Topic What can I start doing today to limit my liability? There are actions you can take today to begin to limit your liability as an operator or doormen.  Robert and Manny give you several tips on thinks you can start doing immediately.  Specifically, the follow steps are guidelines to actions you can take today!  §  Do a self-assessment of your venue – What are you doing proactively to limit liability. What policies, procedures, and systems are in place to limit your liability and increase safety?  What is being overlooked? Try to approach it with a new set of eyes to see the things you might miss because you may suffer from tunnel vision as the operator. §  Plan and hold a mandatory all staff meeting – Raise the awareness of your staff and layout a plan for changes to take place. Invite the feedback from your team to increase buy-in to changes. Have one-on-one meetings with you team to get feedback can help the process, give you creative ways to solve issues and/or create new ways of doing things, and facilitate participation.  §  Change your hiring practices – Plan ahead! Don’t hire just to hire a warm body in a rush. Have a comprehensive interview and hiring process. Do background checks and make sure the individuals are qualified and capable to protect your business.  Make sure you call references. Always document your hiring process so you can demonstrate to the courts that you have good hiring practices. §  Change/develop good habits in your business – Implement and live by your policy and procedure manual.  Violating your own policies and procedures can hurt you in court.  Develop good daily habits. Have regular and consistent routines for each shift – the beginning of, then end of, and in-between.  All good sport-teams run the same drills every day to keep them sharp and on top of their game.  Create proactive habits with your team to limit/eliminate potential liability issues.   §  Implement a comprehensive documentation policy – If you didn’t write it down it didn’t happen! To reduce your liability you need to have good (even great) documentation practices. Make sure you document employee meetings, trainings, and general business. Always document minor and major incidents. The more you document the better your defense if a lawsuit arises.  The intensity of the documentation needs to match the intensity of the incident. §  Training, training, and more training – This is the number one thing an owner can do to limit liability. Develop and implement regular and on-going training program. Make sure to document your training, it can serve as a good defense if need be.  Utilize proven training material to reduce time, effort and costs associated with training.  Nightclub Security Consultants has full in-person and online training available If you are in California all guards who are in contact the public, wear a distinctive uniform, and do not carry a weapon are required to have a California Proprietary Officer License.  Check out our on-line training program on our website. Remember that awareness of the potential liability is half the battle! You then need to take steps to limit the potential for liability. You can never completely eliminate liability, you can never close the window completely, but you can reduce it greatly with proactive and forward thinking.  Lawsuits will happen in our business, how prepared will you be to fend off or fight these lawsuits.  Don’t wait. Get started today! Some smart and proactive insurance companies consider significant discounts on liability insurance premiums when their clients participate in approved training programs. Pike Barber with Hospitality Insurance Agency and Cliff Ziegler with Restaurants Programs of America are two of the smart insurance providers providing such discounts. Nightclub Security Consultants Upcoming Dates  July 22nd to 24th, 2013 Los Angeles Area PSO Training at the Crocker Club at 453 S Spring St.  More info here.  July 29th to 30th , 2013 Washington DC area National Host Training at The Shadowroom in cooperation with Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington - at 2131 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20037. More info here.   August 3rd to 4th. 2013 Private in-person training at AEG Worldwide at The Rabobank Area in Bakersfield, California.   August 20th to 22nd, 2013 We will be showing and Robert C. Smith will be speaking at the ED Publications – 2013 Gentlemen’s Club Owners EXPO & Tradeshow.  Registration is still available if you would like to attend. ***Reminder – Robert C. Smith and Manny Marquez are not attorneys.  This show’s topics are discussed in general terms.  We highly recommendseeking and consulting a legal professional. If you have questions or comments email us at questions@nightclubsecurity.com. Visit our website at www.nightclubsecuity.com. Like us on facebook@BouncerTraining.     Be Nice!