What is the primary focus when dealing with crowds?

The primary focus when dealing with crowds is safety. Ensuring the safety of individuals within the crowd is paramount, as it encompasses preventing accidents, managing emergencies, and addressing any potential threats. Effective crowd management prioritizes techniques and protocols that protect attendees from harm, whether that involves monitoring crowd behavior, implementing safety measures, or having emergency response plans in place.

While engaging the crowd, gathering information, and clearing the area can be important elements of crowd management, they all serve the overarching goal of maintaining safety. Engaging the crowd can help in establishing a positive atmosphere, gathering information supports making informed decisions, and clearing the area can be necessary in emergencies, but none of these can take precedence over ensuring the safety of all individuals present.