POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
This document lays out some scenarios common to large events where SWAT personnel are qualified, experienced, and trained to respond. While not an exclusive list it provides a general outline of the types of possible scenarios, and what kind of response is appropriate. Some of the expectations and requirements of SWAT deployment are also laid out regarding communication and coverage. Any questions should be directed to Ralf Landsberger or Derrick Uittenbosch using the Contact page.
First Aid (Non-Emerg.)
Patient will be brought to the attention of the designated first aid attendant, who will assess and deal with the situation according to established protocols. The event organizers will be informed of the incident.
First Aid (Emerg.)
Patient will be brought to the attention of the designated first aid attendant, who will assess and deal with the situation according to established protocols. Other SWAT members will assist in calling 911 Emergency Services as directed by the first aid attendant. The event organizers will be immediately informed of the incident.
Missing Child
In the event where a leader cannot locate one of the children under their supervision, the venue will be immediately locked down and all exits manned to ensure no exit or entry. SWAT personnel will supervise the lockdown and sweep of the building. If required to assist in the sweep, all available event staff and volunteers will follow the directions of the SWAT team. If the child cannot be located within 15 minutes, 911 Emergency Services will be called, all event attendees will be gathered to one main room under supervision, and a second sweep of venue and surrounding property will be conducted.
Natural Disaster
In the event of a flood, earthquake, or other natural disaster where the safety of the venue is compromised, emergency evacuation will take place immediately in accordance with pre-determined evacuation procedures by order of the Fire Marshal. 911 Emergency Services will be called.
Fire
In the event of smoke or a fire, the fire alarm will be activated, emergency evacuation will take place immediately in accordance with pre-determined evacuation procedures by order of the Fire Marshal. 911 Emergency Services will be called.
Weapons
In the event where a weapon is located in the process of a bag-check or during the event, the item in question will be immediately confiscated by the SWAT team until the end of the event. If the individual is under-age, the item in question will be turned over to either the individual's supervisor or youth leader, or to the individual's parents. A weapon is defined as any knife of any length, or any sharp or pointy object which harm or injury is likely. If the weapon violates legal standards, the weapon and individual will be turned over to local law enforcement authorities.
Bag-checks
If the nature of the event is such that the safety and security of all participants requires that bag-checks take place as deemed necessary by event coordinators and SWAT team personnel, bag-checks will be carried out as directed by trained and experienced SWAT team personnel.
Power Outage
In the event where the venue looses power, evacuation procedures will be followed as required. If the venue is considered safe, the outdoor weather conditions are unfavourable, and there is a location within the building where sufficient natural (or emergency) lighting is available, all event attendees will be gathered in that room until normal operations are considered safe to resume.
Altercations
In the event of a physical altercation where youth leaders/supervisors are not present or are not intervening, the involved parties will be separated and controlled immediately until safety has been restored for all involved persons. If the nature of the altercation exceeds legal standards, local law enforcement will be called. In all other situations, youth leaders and supervisors will be called to intervene in the situation and talk with the involved persons.
Access Control
All individuals must have approved event identification to be allowed access to the venue. Approved identification may include but is not limited to: lanyards with badges, wristbands, t-shirts, or uniforms. If an individual does not have identification they will be escorted to the main command centre where event organizers will sort out the situation. If the individual is not allowed access, they will be immediately escorted off the premises.
Crowd Control
In the event where participants are not following established protocols or procedures and safety or security may be compromised, SWAT team members will intervene where required in order to ensure the health and safety of event participants and the safety and security of venue property.
Communication
In the event where SWAT is leading a group of volunteers, no volunteer will be approached or removed from a post by event organizers or staff. All requests for assistance will go through the SWAT lead team. SWAT lead team will then ensure that the request is carried out to the satisfaction of event organizers. If volunteers are placed on a particular team (for example, lunch team) under direct supervision of an event organizer or staff member, the volunteers will remain the responsibility of that particular event member.
Proper communication channels will be established before an event takes place on both the SWAT team and the event team. In addition, for the sake of clarity, a proper chain-of-command will be established with event organizers and the SWAT team. This is to minimize miscommunication, confusion, and disorder.
Proper communication channels will be established before an event takes place on both the SWAT team and the event team. In addition, for the sake of clarity, a proper chain-of-command will be established with event organizers and the SWAT team. This is to minimize miscommunication, confusion, and disorder.
Insurance
As a prerequisite to SWAT involvement, event organizers will provide written confirmation of inclusion in the insurance policy for the event. Specific mention of Youth iCON Ministries, including all staff and volunteers, must be present in the policy as additional insured. Written confirmation must be received by SWAT and Youth iCON organizers no later than 5 business days before the event. If this is not received on time, all SWAT organization and participation in the event will cease.