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on Dec 31st, 2015 and filed under Security, response heightened for New Year’s Eve – KLAS-TV
By Mauricio Marin , Chris Benka
2016 is right around the corner, and Las Vegas is the place to ring in the new year for hundreds of thousands of people. Preparations have been extensive, not just for fireworks and shows, but for safety and security.
More than 330,000 people are expected to celebrate New Year’s Eve on the Strip and around town.
Law enforcement and first responders aren’t taking any chances with so many people.
Visitors, meanwhile, are prepared to have fun, despite potential threats.
“That’s just the world we live in today,” said visitor Jarrett Theragood. “You just have to be aware of your surroundings and pray that nothing happens.”
County emergency management leaders say they’re ready for anything.
“Whether it’s a health crisis, if it’s a natural crisis, a man-made crisis, if it’s anything or all of the above, we’re ready to handle,” said Clark County Emergency Manager and Deputy Fire Chief John Steinbeck.
With so many people in town, training becomes crucial for first responders if a disaster strikes.
“We have the people here from different agencies – from the Red Cross, to state agencies, to Metro, Clark County Fire, the Health District – all in one room that can go ahead and provide that support,” Steinbeck said.
Metro Police expects to have as many as 1,400 officers on the Strip and downtown in addition to undercover officers among the crowds.
Hundreds of AMR and Medic West paramedics and EMTs are also ready.
“We’ll see anything from bumps and bruises all the way to potential cardiac arrests,” said AMR/Medic West representative Damon Schilling.
They will have medical tents and crews up and down the Strip and ready to transport people who are seriously hurt to the hospital.
For some ready to have a good time, that’s comforting.
“I know the police are going to be out and everything, so I know everything is going to be safe, and I know there is authority everywhere,” said visitor Marshall Curry.
Although there is no legal ban, authorities are urging people not to bring large bags or strollers onto the Strip.
They will ask to search anyone with bulky items on them.
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