The University of Massachusetts Amherst Police Department (UMPD) provides support for special events on campus to ensure the safety and security of attendees, participants, and the university community. If you are planning a special event on campus, it is essential to request UMPD support in a timely manner to guarantee adequate resources and personnel are allocated. In this article, we will outline the steps to request UMPD support for special events, highlighting the importance of advance planning, communication, and collaboration.
Understanding UMPD Support for Special Events
The UMPD provides a range of support services for special events, including event planning, security assessments, crowd control, traffic management, and emergency response. The department’s goal is to create a safe and secure environment for all events, while also minimizing disruptions to the campus community. To achieve this, UMPD works closely with event organizers, university departments, and other stakeholders to identify potential risks and develop effective mitigation strategies.
Event Classification and Support Levels
The UMPD classifies special events into three categories, each with corresponding support levels:
| Event Category | Support Level |
|---|---|
| Low-Risk Events (e.g., lectures, meetings) | Basic support (e.g., event registration, minimal security presence) |
| Medium-Risk Events (e.g., concerts, festivals) | Enhanced support (e.g., increased security presence, crowd control measures) |
| High-Risk Events (e.g., large-scale concerts, high-profile speakers) | Comprehensive support (e.g., advanced security planning, emergency response protocols) |
Event organizers should consult with UMPD to determine the appropriate support level for their event, taking into account factors such as attendee numbers, event type, and potential risks.
Requesting UMPD Support
To request UMPD support for a special event, follow these steps:
- Submit an event request form: Complete the UMPD event request form, providing detailed information about the event, including date, time, location, expected attendance, and event type.
- Coordinate with UMPD event planners: Schedule a meeting or consultation with UMPD event planners to discuss event details, security concerns, and support requirements.
- Conduct a security assessment: Collaborate with UMPD to conduct a security assessment, identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate them.
- Develop an event plan: Create a comprehensive event plan, outlining logistics, security protocols, and emergency response procedures.
- Confirm support details: Verify support details with UMPD, including the number of officers assigned, security equipment, and communication protocols.
It is essential to initiate the request process at least 6-8 weeks prior to the event date to ensure adequate planning and resource allocation.
Event Planning and Coordination
Effective event planning and coordination are critical to ensuring a successful and safe event. UMPD recommends that event organizers:
- Develop a clear event concept and objectives
- Establish a budget and secure necessary funding
- Coordinate with university departments and external vendors
- Create a detailed event schedule and timeline
- Identify and mitigate potential risks and hazards
By working closely with UMPD and other stakeholders, event organizers can create a well-planned and safe event that meets the needs of attendees and the university community.
What is the deadline for requesting UMPD support for a special event?
+The deadline for requesting UMPD support is at least 6-8 weeks prior to the event date. However, it is recommended to initiate the request process as early as possible to ensure adequate planning and resource allocation.
What information is required to complete the UMPD event request form?
+The UMPD event request form requires detailed information about the event, including date, time, location, expected attendance, event type, and security concerns. Additional information may be requested depending on the event type and support requirements.
In conclusion, requesting UMPD support for special events on campus requires careful planning, coordination, and communication. By following the outlined steps and working closely with UMPD, event organizers can ensure a safe and successful event that meets the needs of attendees and the university community.
