Theme Parks Install Metal Detectors to Protect from Soft Target Attack

Theme Parks Install Metal Detectors to Protect from Soft Target Attack

In a sign of how jittery the nation has become about terrorism and gun violence against soft targets, all three major Orlando theme parks have installed metal detectors at the front of their attractions.

Walt Disney World would not say how long its metal detectors would be in place, while SeaWorld said the devices were only in place through the holidays. Universal suggested that they would only be testing them at the Orlando theme park, they would decide late the permanence of the security measure.

The changes extend outside Orlando, with Disneyland and Universal Studios in Hollywood also installing the devices.

Security in general has been a big concern following recent attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, Calif., the federal Department of Homeland Security issued a bulletin saying it was “especially concerned that terrorist-inspired individuals and homegrown violent extremist may be encouraged or inspired to target public events or places.”

Disney World, where a man was recently arrested for trying to get into the Magic Kingdom with a gun – is now discontinuing the sale of toy guns. They have also banned people who are 14 or older from wearing costumes. More deputies and security guards have been visible at the resort lately, and specially trained dogs have been patrolling key areas.

SeaWorld said they would be “enhancing security measures for the busy holiday season, including increased security presence both inside and outside the parks,” while Universal just wants “our guests to feel safe when they come here.”

Metal detectors have become more welcome for general security reasons. Travelers have walked through them at airport, stadiums and major events for years, creating a sense of familiarity.

 These parks are not the first to up security, however. Six Flags theme parks put up metal detectors after Sept. 11, 2001. In 2004 Disney World experimented with metal detectors at their entrances but ended up not making them permanent. Universal has metal detectors in front of certain rides to make sure that people don’t bring on certain items, such as cell phones.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • It's Show Time

    I am one of those people that likes to see things get bigger and better. As advertised, ISC West is going to be bigger (more exhibitors) and better (more attendees). It’s show time in Las Vegas. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • ISC West
  • SIA Releases New Report on Operational Security Technology

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has released an impactful new resource – Operational Security Technology: Principles, Challenges and Achieving Mission-Critical Outcomes Leveraging OST. Read Now

  • Cyber Overconfidence Is Leaving Your Organization Vulnerable

    The increased sophistication of cyber threats pumped by the relentless use of AI and machine learning brings forth record-breaking statistics. Cyberattacks grew 44% YoY in 2024, with a weekly average of 1,673 cyberattacks per organization. While organizations up their security game to help thwart these attacks, a critical question remains: Can employees identify a threat when they come across one? A Confidence Gap survey reveals that 86% of employees feel confident in their ability to identify phishing attempts. But things are not as rosy as they appear; the more significant part of the report finds this confidence misplaced. Read Now

  • Mission 500 Debuts Refreshed Identity Ahead of Security 5K/2K at ISC West

    Mission 500, the security industry’s nonprofit charity dedicated to supporting children in need across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico, has unveiled a refreshed brand identity ahead of ISC West. The charity’s new look includes a modernized logo with refined messaging to reinforce Mission 500’s nearly decade-long commitment to serving the needs of children and families in crisis. Read Now

    • Industry Events

New Products

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge.