Industry Trends
•
September 2023
October 2023
How to Detect a Concealed Weapon
October 2023
How to Detect a Concealed Weapon
Awareness of our surroundings is crucial for our safety, public safety, and for the security of those around us. Spotting concealed weapons can save lives. Here are three ways that can be used to detect a concealed weapon.
1. Physical and behavioral observation: Staying aware and looking for signs of unusual behavior at every level is essential. Observing individuals with a suspicious bulge or the outline of a weapon in a person's pocket, purse, or bag1 might suggest the presence of a concealed weapon. Also, observing an unnatural gait or unusual stride may indicate someone is trying to hide a shotgun, rifle, or submachine gun under a coat while walking; the butt of the weapon will often cause a noticeable hunchback stride2.
In addition, a person carrying a concealed weapon may make awkward movements, such as repeatedly touching a specific part of their body, adjusting their clothing, or shifting their weight from one foot to another3. This body language can often reveal more than words can express. In addition, unusual clothing may be a deliberate attempt to conceal a weapon and avoid suspicion.
A person with a concealed weapon may also display signs of nervousness, such as avoiding eye contact, sweating, or appearing overly anxious4. They may exhibit inappropriate reactions or overcompensation in certain situations. This is not definitive proof that a person has a gun but should prompt caution and, if necessary, cause the observer to initiate an emergency plan, activate an emergency communications system, and/or contact law enforcement.
3. Metal Detection: Metal detectors positioned in critical areas are another tool for firearm screening. Even firearms produced with 3D printing technology are required to include a component made of metal. They are detectable by metal detectors and x-ray machines. In addition, ammunition cartridges are made with metal components5. When weapons are detected at a security checkpoint, the individual can be stopped, or an emergency plan can be initiated if necessary.
4. VMS Integration with Access Control: Access control and security cameras at security checkpoints can be integrated with a video management system like CORTROL to monitor potential threats. Different screening levels can be achieved using a video management system with facial recognition, AI, or video analytics. Known violent criminals can be identified with facial recognition. At the same time, AI and video analytics can monitor for unusual activity, including an object left behind, a security checkpoint disturbance, and more. CORTROL's event and action manager, integrated with access control, can initiate multiple actions, including alerting security personnel, prompting a lockdown, or triggering an emergency communications system.
Multiple tools can be used to detect a concealed firearm (besides the three aforementioned). Depending on size, location, and resources, organizations should use all available tools and a multilayered approach. Using physical and behavioral observations, emergency communications systems, and biometrics, AI, and video analytic technology integrated with video management systems (VMS), real-time monitoring can provide situational awareness, detect illegal concealed weapons, speed up emergency response times, and potentially prevent dangerous situations.
