The United States of America has experienced more flooding in 2016 than ever previously recorded.
As I am writing this, I am in Los Angeles where a new “train” of storms is poised to hit Southern California with heavy rain, mountain snow and strong winds this weekend.
And what is going on in L.A this weekend? As you would expect, there are many large-scale events including the LA Travel and Adventure Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the UCLA vs. USC Men’s Basketball Game at the Galen Center, the NHL’s Florida Panthers vs. the LA Kings at Staples Center and Blake Shelton in Concert at The Forum.
I reached out to Estella Flores, facility manager at the Los Angeles Convention Center, to get an idea of how they prepare for severe weather.
In light of the severe weather predictions for this coming weekend, what specific actions will you take relating to any potential ponding, drainage and standing water issues?
Our in-house Carpenters, Plumbers and Mechanics complete a general assessment of gutters/drains (both floor & roof) as it relates to impediment factors and/or previously addressed areas of concern. All gutters and drains are cleaned out prior to impending rain. We stage/prepare all of the equipment that we may require in each area for mitigation. We also review staffing levels to ensure adequate coverage during forecasted occurrences. We have a hydro jet available on site to unclog any drains that may become an issue.
What, if any, actions have you taken based on the previous amounts of precipitation in and around your facility?
After a large amount of precipitation, our facility supervisors, carpenters, plumbers and mechanics address any new areas of concern where water has entered the building. New leaks that are found are tagged with a colored sticker to indicate needing repair before the next occurrence.
What will you undertake in collaboration with front of house in anticipation of the rain’s effect on guests from transportation and parking to approach, arrival, entry and movement throughout your facility?
The front of house staff will be briefed on our inclement weather mitigation plan, and our event managers have copies available for their clients if requested. Prior to any rain event, we secure placement of floor mats at each entrance door to the facility, including parking entrances. We also put out umbrella bags at each entrance. We send out the key personnel contact list for the event management and guest services staff that will be working during the inclement weather. Security and Guest Services are stationed throughout the building in an observational role to report any hazards that may be associated with weather conditions.
What additional steps have you taken to prepare for these storms, i.e. additional staff, equipment, resources etc.?
Prior to any inclement weather, all operational, security and guest services staff are briefed during our pre-event line-up on our procedures, and a check of equipment and supply inventory is completed. We also assess the potential need for additional staffing. Water collecting bins/receptacles are placed throughout the facility where leaks have been previously reported, door frames are checked to ensure they are weather stripped and closing properly, and absorbent socks are placed at doorways that have the tendency to be affected by water. Safety equipment such as rain gear is available to any personnel whose duties may be outside of the facility.
How do you communicate with event promoters and producers on this kind of situation?”
The Event Manager conveys the information we have along with any immediate concerns with weather and associated conditions. We keep an ongoing dialog with status updates regarding weather and possible impact to our client’s event.
What advice do you have for other facilities facing this kind of impending situation?
Prepare, plan and communicate. Make sure staff understands that flexibility and adaptability is key when responding to these issues.
The Bottom Line
Our response to severe weather situations is in line with most of the things we do successfully, which is plan, communicate, execute and review with an eye to constant improvement.
Russ Simons is...
managing partner, Venue Solutions Group, and has been in this industry for more than three decades, working in arenas, stadiums, design, construction, safety and security. Send questions about any aspect of venue operation to askruss@venuestoday.com or mail questions to Venues Today, P.O. Box 2540, Huntington Beach, CA 92647.