Disney To Test Metal Detectors At Theme Parks

CujoSR · Post by **CujoSR** » Fri Apr 16, 2004 1:14 am

That's it. It's Over.

From: News4jax.com

Open-Bag Security Checks Are Currently Performed At Parks

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Walt Disney World will be testing metal detectors after hours at its theme parks, sources told WKMG-TV in Orlando Thursday.

Although security was increased at Disney parks after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, only open-bag security checks are currently performed at the entrances to theme parks.

Security experts familiar with the story told WKMG-TV that the move is a critical development in Disney's security agenda.

One of the possible tests at the parks could include how potential interference from Disney's monorail systems would affect magnometers, according to the report.

Disney executives would not confirm or deny the testing on park grounds. However, a U.S. Secret Service spokesman said major corporations around the world are testing new security technologies.

"Disney, being the leaders in their field, is always willing to try and experiment with the latest advances to enhance the experiences of their customers," U.S. Secret Service spokesman Robert Flaherty said.

Donna-Lynne Dalton, recording secretary for Teamsters Local 385, which represents costumed characters at the parks, said she thought using metal detectors was a good idea.

"I'm surprised they don't already do that," Dalton said. "I mean they have them in schools."

Visitors may feel more secure in the parks if metal detectors are used, said Joe Condo, president of the Service Trades Council Union, a coalition of unions which represents Disney workers.

"Security is good," Condo said. "It makes people feel confident."

WKMG-TV reported that possible security testing at the parks was not prompted by any new threats against Disney.

Copyright 2004 by News4Jax.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved.

coldfire409 · Post by **coldfire409** » Fri Apr 16, 2004 9:51 pm

Eventhough security is a good idea the thing that gets me the most is when it's busy at the studios the CMs park in the parking garage, and most of the time they don't inspect anything. But when we walk into the park they inspect everything, and now want to add metal detectors. Perhaps they would be a good idea for some special events. Grad Night, Night of Joy, and some of the conventions that they have with some rowdy crowds. I know that Univeral uses them for Halloween Horror Nights, unless you are already in the park when the event begins.

It seems like that the them parks, all of them have so much consistency these days

Ottar · Post by **Ottar** » Sat Apr 17, 2004 7:39 am

Well, looking at it from a CM point of view I'd be all for it - after all chances are the loonies who would even consider bringing a gun or knife with him or her to the park would use it against a CM. Most people who arm themselves for non-defense purposes have a problem with authority figures, something tha CMs often act as...

techie-13 · Post by **techie-13** » Sat Apr 17, 2004 12:20 pm

PGA has had metal detectors at the front gate for about 10 years. They started with the "wands" and have since gone to the walkthrough magnometers when the nation's security level has gone up. Not sure that I've seen much difference.

Zazu · Post by **Zazu** » Sat Apr 17, 2004 12:50 pm

Maybe I've missed something, but has there been a history of violence inside the parks using metal weapons? I've seen lots of fitsfights, a few guests using folded strollers or coolers as weapons, and half the guests who drive strollers or ECVs in the park have issues. But I haven't seen a single case at WDW of a knife or gun used in an assault, and only a few at Disneyland during special events.

Is there a lot of murder and mayhem that I just haven't noticed? :?:

coldfire409 · Post by **coldfire409** » Sat Apr 17, 2004 9:45 pm

^

I hear you there. I don't think that anybody had assaulted anybody in WDW with a metal weapon that the metal detectors could have stopped. Maybe durring Grad Nights, Night of Joy, and some other special events. But there has to be consistency in how, and who they check. Nobody has to be exempt if the decide to impliment it.