You can expect to see elevated security around the World, including Toronto, at concerts and sporting events.
The Blue Jays host two three-game series beginning on Friday. The club has released the following statement regarding security at upcoming games."The Toronto Blue Jays are constantly reviewing its security policies in conjunction with the Toronto Police Services, MLB Security and other law enforcement agencies. The disturbing and tragic events of last evening will only reinforce our efforts. We strive to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our guests."
The Weeknd is performing two shows at the Air Canada Centre Friday and Saturday. Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment will be beefing up security. "MLSE’s security personnel are in constant communication with local, national and international law enforcement and security experts to ensure the protection of our venues and fans. There will be additional security staffing at upcoming events to ensure all fans feel safe in light of yesterday’s tragic events, but it is important to reinforce that these strict security measures, and proactive consultation with law enforcement and venue managers around the world, is the highest priority at all times," it says in an emailed statement.
Mayor John Tory has been briefed by Police Chief Mark Saunders and says there is no information that would cause the city's threat level to increase.
Security expert David Hyde says the reality is there's no way to have maximum security everywhere, all the time.
There are a growing range of tactics, though, that will now be ramped up. "More traditionally, certainly, police and security guards. Different lineup configurations, the use of CCTV cameras, the use of plain-clothed security in and amongst crowds."
Hyde explains the challenge is there are so many possibilities for a terrorist group in terms of the myriad of soft targets out there. "There's not enough security to protect all the potential targets. So, inevitably, as fast as you protect one type of threat, let's say aviation, then you kind of deflect these terrorists to targets that are still going to be high yield for them. It's still going to be very impactful but it's not going to be as easy to protect for the authorities. I think we're going to see that cat and mouse game continue to play out if we lock down stadiums or other forms of mass entertainment."
As far as copycats are concerned, he says it's not very common but authorities can't take the chance. "It has happened. We do see it from time to time. If there is another group planning something or thinking of something they might take the media attention from this event and turn it to what they want to do."
It's mostly up to individual stadium and property owners to decide on their own security. "I can tell you if I owned or ran one of these types of major stadiums, you don't want to overreact, you don't want to double up on security, but given what's happened I would want additional eyes and ears on my security for the next little bit. I would want to make sure my concerts were secured a little bit tighter, the entry was a little bit tighter, the exit at the end of the evening was a little bit tighter."