Las Vegas, a perennial target for potential threats, is ensuring robust security measures as it prepares for the upcoming Super Bowl at Allegiant Stadium on 11 February. Past high-profile events like the New Year’s Eve and the Formula 1 Grand Prix have provided invaluable experience, allowing for better-organized security preparations. Police plans to extend its coverage beyond the stadium to locations hosting parties and Super Bowl experiences.
The Super Bowl’s Scale Presents Unique Challenges
The Department of Homeland Security has designated the Super Bowl as a SEAR 1 event, signifying the highest level of security. Metro aims for successful law enforcement through communication and collaboration involving public safety groups. Despite the challenges, Clark County Sheriff McMahill stressed the importance of keeping officers motivated and focused to ensure the community’s safety.
In an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, McMahill highlighted the department’s approach to high-profile events, drawing parallels with past gatherings. McMahill noted the additional challenges posed by numerous events surrounding the game. Many resorts on the Strip plan on attracting fans with activities like pool parties, adding to the NFL-approved events.
“We are prepared for the Super Bowl like we were prepared for any other major event.”
Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill
Sheriff McMahill acknowledged the challenges faced by his officers, noting that on any given weekend, around 1,200 officers work overtime to cover high-profile events in the tourist corridor. Metro has accumulated substantial experience responding to emerging issues, leveraging its resources to achieve maximum effect. The upcoming Super Bowl should be a suitable test of the Metro’s expertise.
Preparations Are Well Underway
Security measures have evolved significantly since the tragic mass shooting on 1 October 2017 during a country music festival on the Strip. The incident remains a cautionary tale when planning security for high-profile events, as it offers painful lessons on managing such large crowds. New technologies and increased awareness should hopefully lead to a trouble-free experience for Las Vegas visitors.
To ensure the success of security measures, Metro Lt. Kendall Bell, co-chair of the Las Vegas Super Bowl Host Committee’s public safety and security subcommittee, highlighted the importance of information-sharing and joint efforts. The committee has been actively assisting the authorities, attending the past two Super Bowls in California and Arizona to familiarize themselves with the event.
As Las Vegas prepares for the Super Bowl, the city remains vigilant against potential threats, drawing on past experiences to implement robust security measures for the upcoming major event. Although the Metro cannot eliminate every possible danger, it is hard at work to ensure the high-profile game will happen seamlessly and without significant issues.
Deyan Dimitrov
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