In the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the Kruiliya Rock Festival in Moscow on Saturday 5 July, the ILMC Safety Focus Group, as shocked as any of us, offers some advice:

Although the industry has discussed possible attacks on concerts following September 11 this incident brings home the reality of the threat. While festival and concert organisers can do little in the face of a determined attack - and anti-terrorism is not the primary focus of the SFG - the group feels strongly that adherence to standard event security and safety procedures can help to lower the risk of terrorism and reduce casualties in the event of an incident.

Key points are:
1. Constant vigilance.
2. Well-planned and rehearsed evacuation procedures (see previous evacuation guidelines posted on www.ilmc.com - click ILMC icon followed by Safety Focus Group icon and select "announcement 27 February 2003" from drop-down menu).
3. . Airline style safety briefings before a concert, including public advice on how to react to a suspicious person, bag or vehicle (local police forces are the best source of appropriate advice).
4. Carry out a risk assessment on the cultural nature of the artist and potential audience and seek advice where necessary. Although we can only base our comments on press reports, it appears that security procedures worked well in Moscow. Bombers were prevented from gaining access to the site itself and it is likely that casualties were reduced as a result. This, however, will be small consolation for the families and friends of the attack's victims, to whom the SFG extends its heartfelt condolences.