Theme Parks Install Metal Detectors to Protect from Soft Target Attack

Theme Parks Install Metal Detectors to Protect from Soft Target Attack

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • Dec 28, 2015

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

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.