(CelebrityAccess News Service) – The ILMC Safety Focus Group (SFG) issued the following
statement on the terrorist attack on the Kruiliya Rock Festival in Moscow on July 5,
following a period of consultation after the incident.
"While festival and concert organisers can do little in the face of a
determined attack – and anti-terrorism is not the primary focus of the SFG –
the group feels strongly that adherence to standard event security and
safety procedures can help to lower the risk of terrorism and reduce
casualties in the event of an incident," the group said.
The SFG stresses these key points:
1) Constant vigilance;
2) Well planned and rehearsed
evacuation procedures (see previous evacuation guidelines posted on www.ilmc.com
"announcement 27 February 2003" from drop-down menu);
3) Airline style safety briefings
before a concert, including public advice on how to react to a suspicious person, bag or
vehicle (local police forces are the best source of appropriate advice); Carry out a risk
assessment on the cultural nature of the artist and potential audience and seek advice where
necessary.
The SFG says that while it can only base its comments on press reports, it appears that
security procedures worked well in Moscow.
"Bombers were prevented from gaining access to the site itself and it is likely that
casualties were reduced as a result. This, however, will be small consolation for the
families and friends of the attack's victims, to whom the SFG extends its
heartfelt condolences," it stated.
The ILMC Safety Focus Group includes: Henrik Nielsen (Roskilde Festival,
Denmark/Yourope); Chrissy Uerlings (Peter Rieger Konzertagentur, Germany); Roger
Barrett (Star Hire, UK); Bert van Horck (ICMS, Holland); Patrik Axelsson (Hultsfred
Festival, Sweden); Mike Gartside (Administrator). — edited by Jane Cohen and Bob Grossweiner
