Concealed vs Open Carry Implications on Venue Security

Concealed carry and open carry laws have been a hot topic. While concealed carry laws allow individuals to carry concealed firearms in public places, open carry laws permit individuals to openly carry firearms in public spaces. How concealed or open carry laws affect venue security is a complicated issue that requires a nuanced analysis.

Concealed carry laws are those that allow individuals to carry a concealed firearm in public places. These laws require a permit and background check before issuing the permit. Proponents of concealed carry laws argue that they allow individuals to protect themselves and others in case of a threat. Additionally, they argue that concealed carry laws deter criminal activity since criminals are less likely to engage in criminal activity if they know that their intended victims might be armed.

On the other hand, open carry laws allow individuals to openly carry firearms in public spaces. This means that the firearm is visible to everyone, including potential criminals. Proponents of open carry laws argue that they promote personal freedom and discourage crime. They also argue that open carry laws help deter mass shootings since the armed public can engage the shooter.

The Giffords center provides a detailed listing  of these state laws. Today there are five states that prohibit open carry of handguns in public under any circumstances: California, Florida, Illinois, New York and New Jersey, plus the District of Columbia [1].

Both concealed and open carry laws have implications for venue security. One of the main concerns is the potential for accidents or incidents involving firearms. For instance, accidental discharges of firearms or incidents of violence can occur in venues with either concealed or open carry laws.

Additionally, venue security can be compromised in situations where individuals carrying firearms are unable to distinguish between real threats and false perceived threats. This can result in the unnecessary use of firearms, which can cause harm or loss of life.

Venue security personnel are trained to identify and respond to potential threats. However, with concealed and open carry laws, the job of the security personnel becomes more complicated. For instance, in a situation where a threat is detected, security personnel may have to distinguish between armed individuals who are either harmless or there to protect, and those who are there to cause harm.

The detection of concealed weapons is a critical aspect of venue security, especially in situations where concealed carry laws are in place. Since concealed firearms are not visible, security personnel must rely on various detection methods to name potential threats.

In states with concealed carry laws, guns are more likely to be found concealed on the body whether accidental, licensed, or out of habit to carry. Venue operators of private property will often set a policy on their property to not allow such concealment, so long as the patrons are not in the public right-of-way where the laws may allow it.

One common method of detecting concealed weapons is through the use of metal detectors. Metal detectors are devices that can detect the presence of metal objects on a person's body. They work by emitting an electromagnetic field and then measuring the response of any metal objects that are in the field. When a metal object is detected, an alarm sounds, alerting security personnel to the presence of a potential threat. Another similar option is to use next generation weapon and threat detectors, such as the RONIN™ Enterprise Intelligent Threat Detection System, that can detect threat items while ignoring other metallic items like keys and belt buckles.

Another method of detecting concealed weapons is through the use of X-ray machines. X-ray machines provide a more detailed image of the person and their belongings, which can help security personnel identify any potential threats. This method is commonly used in airports and other high-security venues, but it can be more expensive and time-consuming than other detection methods.

Security personnel can also use physical searches and wanding to detect concealed weapons. This method involves patting down a person's body and searching their belongings for any potential threats. While this method can be effective, it can also be intrusive and time-consuming.

In addition to these methods, security personnel can also use behavioral profiling to find potential threats. This method involves observing a person's behavior and looking for any signs of suspicious activity. For instance, someone who is nervous or agitated may be hiding something or planning to cause harm.

Overall, the detection of concealed weapons is a critical aspect of venue security, and security personnel must use various methods to identify potential threats. While metal detectors and X-ray machines can be effective, they can also be expensive and time-consuming. Physical searches and behavioral profiling can also be effective, but they can be intrusive and may require significant training and experience. The most effective approach will depend on the specific venue and the level of security required.

While the laws provide individuals with the means to protect themselves and others, they also raise concerns about venue security. It is crucial that venue security personnel are adequately trained to identify and respond to potential threats, whether or not individuals are carrying firearms; but just as crucial that they understand the laws in their state and the implications of those laws on their duties.

[1] https://giffords.org/lawcenter/gun-laws/policy-areas/guns-in-public/open-carry/

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