Out With Metal Detectors: Why Your School Needs a Weapon Detection System

Student mental health is an increased concern as school shootings have risen across the country. Schools have taken necessary action to lock down the security of campus buildings, but doing so has made some environments look and feel more like prisons than inviting places to learn. 

All of this—the fear and environment—has contributed to increases in students struggling with depression, anxiety, and stress. Colleges have seen a 50% increase in student mental health struggles over the past decade.
Schools can address this concern by toning down the physical reminders of crime—namely, by putting away the metal detectors. Continue reading to learn why schools in Lubbock, TX, and surrounding areas should consider switching to less intrusive and more advanced weapon detection systems.

SEE ALSO: A Guide to Understanding Your Weapon Detection Systems

The Limitations of Metal Detectors

Metal detectors have been a go-to standard in school security for over a decade. Designed to detect the presence of metal, they have successfully limited the number of weapons brought into schools. However, they also create a few issues. Students entering buildings through metal detectors may face long lines and delays getting to class. Also, these types of security require a manual check for anyone who triggers the alarm, which is labor-intensive and potentially invasive to students.

Weapon detection systems, however, bring new speed and accuracy to the entry process. They can scan many students without requiring individual checks, reducing the lines and bottlenecks. The ease of entry will help students start their days more focused and prepared to learn.

Benefits of Weapon Detection Systems

Unlike metal detectors, weapon detection systems operate using algorithms and sensors to identify various threats, including the presence of guns or knives, without requiring students to empty their pockets. These systems are also more accurate, with fewer false alarms, which limits the number of unnecessary pat-downs required.

Weapon detection systems are discreet and can be integrated into the school environment in less distracting ways than metal detectors. This positioning ensures students feel less intimidated and welcome entering school for the day.

Switching to modern weapon detection systems is a proactive way for schools to provide a layer of security while also protecting the mental health of students. Systems work behind the scenes and can provide real-time alerts and data to security staff if weapons are identified.

Modernizing security measures should be top-of-mind for schools in Lubbock, TX, and surrounding areas. While metal detectors may have been installed with the best intentions, they have been shown to have a consequential impact on student mental health. All schools should be invested in protecting students' physical and emotional security. 

For more information about weapon detection systems, please contact us at ASAP Security Services. We’re your local resource for school safety.