Calgary festivals adding security following deadly Vancouver incident

Inglewood Night Market is underway nearly two weeks after someone drove into a crowd at a Vancouver festival. Organizers here say they've increased security.

Calgary festival season is here, and several events are increasing security following a deadly attack in Vancouver.

An SUV rammed into the crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day street festival on April 26, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more.

A 30-year-old man is charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder, and more charges are expected.

Officials confirm a history of mental-health problems.

“We’ve taken and looked at what happened in Vancouver very seriously,” said Jennifer Rempel with Vibrant City Events, which organizes several festivals, including Inglewood Night Market and Lilac Festival.

She said there are even more safety measures this year, including strategically placed vehicles around festivals.

“We have added security at all of our barricades to ensure vehicles can’t access the site that aren’t supposed to be here,” Rempel said.

“When it comes to Lilac Festival, those intersections are all hardened with concrete barriers and police vehicles, and we’ve had measures in place greater than Vancouver for many years.”

Before events even start, organizers work with police, fire and emergency crews, preparing for possible threats.

“We rehearse everything from building windows falling out to a grease fire in a food truck,” Rempel said.

City council is working on quick fixes while developing long-term solutions to increase protection, including at events without concrete barriers.

“Nothing to say we can’t put a city vehicle in place that provides that same barrier. Even if they are ad hoc things, at least we’re hardening it, but over the long term, strengthening our protocols,” said Terry Wong, city councillor for Ward 7.

Here are some general event/festival safety tips for Calgarians courtesy of the Calgary police:

• Stick together and designate a meeting spot in case anyone gets separated;
• Be prepared for traffic, weather and a safe ride home;
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to what is happening around you. If you see something suspicious, don’t hesitate to alert a police officer or event security;
• Keep your valuables secure: Crowded areas can be targets for theft, keep valuables with you at all times. Report any lost or stolen property;
• Respect barricades and instructions: Barricades are there for everyone’s safety. Please stay behind them and follow directions of police officers; and
• Dress for the weather: Calgary weather can change quickly. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen and hats and stay hydrated.

That could be anything suspicious, from a vehicle out of place to a bag left unattended.

Such things should be reported to security.