Elections: Critical Event Management Safety and Preparedness Guide

Previous elections have faced challenges such as foreign interference, cybersecurity threats, and domestic unrest, highlighting the importance of robust security measures. Security concerns include the possibility of civil unrest, protests, or violence at campaign events, polling places, or other election-related sites, especially in areas where political tension is high.

High-profile events are likely to have increased security, including law enforcement presence, controlled access points, and surveillance to prevent and respond to potential threats.

Cybersecurity threats also pose a risk. When it comes to elections, risks include potential cyber-attacks on election infrastructure, such as voting systems or databases. The spread of misinformation and disinformation via social media and other online platforms are a persistent cybersecurity threat and have the potential to impact all types of political events, including rallies, conventions, and even the general political climate in a given country or region. 

Authorities will increase security measures at rallies, debates, polling locations, and other election-related events. Attendees may go through screenings, and security personnel will be present to manage crowds and prevent disruptions.

Expect visible security, including law enforcement, controlled access points, and possibly metal detectors in some locations. On election day itself (and during any early voting periods), security personnel will closely monitor vote-counting centers, ensuring that only authorized individuals have access. Authorities may use surveillance cameras and controlled environments to protect the integrity of the process. 

• Avoid Crowds: If possible, avoid large gatherings, especially in politically charged areas. During elections, consider voting during off-peak hours to reduce exposure to crowds.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official communications for updates on potential threats or disruptions.
• Plan Ahead: Have a clear plan for arriving at and departing the event and consider avoiding areas where protests or counter-protests are expected.
• Be Prepared: Keep emergency contacts, including local authorities, readily accessible. Be aware of your surroundings, follow all security procedures, and know the nearest exits.
• Respond to Incidents: In case of a security incident, leave the area immediately and contact the local authorities. If at home or work, secure your location and monitor official updates. 

Critical Event Management provides a comprehensive framework that allows chief security officers (CSOs), chief human resource officers (CHROs), and risk managers to anticipate, prepare, respond, and recover from the risks associated with elections. A unified approach to CEM enables organizations to improve risk mitigation and maintain continuity of operations during election periods by following five steps.

1.    Maintain Situational Awareness

• Geopolitical hotspots: Identify locations where unrest is more likely to occur.
• Political climate analysis: Monitor areas with heightened political tensions.
• Historical data: Review past election-related incidents to anticipate potential scenarios.

2.    Develop a Crisis Management Plan

• Clear communication channels: Establish a reliable communication system to keep all employees informed.
• Emergency response protocols: Define where you will turn for assistance with response activities like medical emergencies.
• Evacuation procedures: Ensure all employees know evacuation routes and safe locations.

3.    Ensure Employee Safety

• Travel advisories: Provide employees with up-to-date travel advice and restrictions.
• Remote work options: Encourage remote work where possible to minimize exposure.
• Personal safety training: Offer training sessions on how to stay safe during civil unrest.

4.    Strengthen Physical Security and Cybersecurity

• Facility security: Increase security personnel and enhance surveillance systems at key locations.
• Access control: Implement strict access control measures to protect critical assets.
• Cybersecurity protocols: Strengthen your cybersecurity to prevent potential cyber-attacks.

5.    Monitor and Adapt Continuously

• Real-time monitoring: Use advanced monitoring tools to stay informed about developments.
• Scenario planning: Regularly update your crisis plans based on the latest information.
• Feedback loops: Gather feedback from employees and stakeholders to improve response strategies.

Ensure your organization is ready to face any challenges that may arise before, during, and after election day. See how Crisis24's comprehensive capabilities can equip you to stay safe and resilient in any scenario.