Safety & Security
Keeping you safe at London Marathon Events’
Security of our events and the safety of all our participants, visitors and guests is paramount.
Our operations are in place to ensure the wellbeing of our local community and all visitors of our events, working closely with local Police Services, National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO), National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and other agencies, continually reviewing our procedures to ensure we are following best practice.
London Marathon Events are monitored by our Event Control Rooms’ CCTV operation, vehicle deployment and frequent but irregular foot and dog patrols – as well as other measures that may not be visible.
Here's what you can expect
Our safety and security teams
Our highly trained teams of stewards and dog support staff work alongside police officers, the emergency services and event organisers – so if you see anything you think may be suspicious, please do not hesitate to find someone to help. As these teams work across the course and beyond, there should always be someone very close by.
Every steward on and around the route can communicate with other stewards and the Event Control Room, as well as the police, via radio and other channels. Our Event Control Room also has access to extensive CCTV to help keep you safe.
Our stewards are very aware that not everyone is familiar with the area where the event is taking place, so will be keeping their eyes open for anyone who may need some assistance or directions.
You can expect to see many members of the police force on and around the course. There’s no need to be concerned about the increased police presence – they are there to help you feel safe and to support us in delivering a secure and successful event.
Participants passing through security
Because of the measures we have in place, participants need to allow extra time to pass through our security arrangements where searches may also take place. You can help this process go more smoothly and avoid delays by wearing your bib number ready for inspection and complying with any instructions the search teams may give you.
Safety and security for spectators and residents
The safety of our visitors on an event day is extremely important to us and there are some simple steps we can follow to ensure everybody is safe and secure.
Our stewards are here to assist you and offer information. Please remain vigilant and if you see anything you are unhappy with, we encourage you to report it to a steward or any member of staff as quickly as possible. We constantly review our security measures and while some of these are visible, others may not be so obvious, but all are aimed at ensuring that visitors remain safe. Please remember our safety procedures are in place for the benefit of all and we ask you to show patience and support.
In the event of an evacuation, crowds will be directed to leave via the nearest available exit route, and to make their way from the area.
We also have teams of stewards and police dedicated to working among spectators and assisting people at popular viewing points – they will be happy to help with anything from security concerns to directions and can contact the rest of the event organisational team if necessary.
Even if you’re familiar with the area, getting around will be different on Event Day, and you will find lots of impassable barriers in many locations. If you get stuck, please ask a steward and they’ll direct you to the nearest managed crossing point or accessible transport station.
Our stewards will also be keeping their eyes open for people who may need assistance and will even approach you to offer help if they think you may need it or are lost – so don’t be surprised if they pop up to say hello!
Be aware that there will also be security dogs patrolling the crowds, but please be assured that they are friendly – and welcome a pat! – with very experienced handlers.