Recent advances and discussions about artificial intelligence (AI) have generated much interest within the security industry. AI is everywhere, from Chat GTP and Open AI to weapons detection platforms. Every day you likely receive correspondence from vendors wishing to demo or sell your district the latest and greatest AI solution.
But… just like any new product, there are always considerations. Our organization is the first in Maryland to deploy an AI-based gun detection solution. Over the last several months, we have learned valuable lessons that all security directors should remember when deploying any artificial intelligence-driven solution.
Why Consider Using AI?
Artificial intelligence is a grand vision of creating intelligent machines. Several different aspects of AI seemingly make it difficult to understand. However, AI is simply replicating the characteristics of humans and creating pathways for computers to accomplish the same tasks. For example, robotics is human movement and environment interaction in the AI world. There are about 20 to 30 computer applications that makeup AI.
In the security space, AI can currently be incorporated into notification workflows, robotics, pattern recognition, speech recognition, natural language processing, and image processing. The gun detection solution we employ uses pattern recognition and image processing to monitor existing security cameras, assess the presence of a person in the frame, identify a weapon, and analyze the person’s movements. A notification workflow is started to alert the necessary people and responders if a firearm is detected.
The technology works as advertised. It is accurate, provides quick notifications, and is a cost-effective way to transition your reactive camera system to a proactive portion of your security strategy. As with any security solution, however, some limitations and variables must be considered while assessing your needs and considering using an artificial intelligence product, especially when adding a gun detection solution to your cameras.
All security solutions have limitations, and each is designed to reduce the risk of one or two threats at best. There are no all-in-one security solutions. The best security strategies always include overlapping layers of security with redundancy.
What AI Gun Detection Is…and Isn’t
Purposes: AI gun detection is designed to extend your threat detection capability in instances where a firearm is visible to the camera. It is not a weapons detection system or metal detector. The deployment of gun detection technology using surveillance cameras is designed to identify a visible firearm and provide almost instantaneous notification to the stewards of the building.
Limitations: This solution can only detect firearms in the “cone of detection,” which is based on many factors related to your camera’s settings, placement, and environmental factors. It can’t see through clothes, bags, or vehicles.
Do Your Homework
Artificial intelligence-driven gun detection solutions work as advertised. They are cost-effective ways to extend threat detection capabilities; however, there will likely be issues with the existing infrastructure that you must be willing to address to ensure the effectiveness of the system. As you explore solution providers, it is essential to understand the age of an AI program and have information that will allow you to efficiently judge the sustainability, legitimacy, and potential for longevity of the solutions provider you are considering.
While solutions such as AI-driven gun detection or weapons detection systems can enhance a K-12 campus’ existing security footprint, their implementation and maintenance require ongoing funding, extensive planning, and continuous work. Additionally, there is a strong likelihood that their presence will require an escalation of commitment in other areas to ensure maximum effectiveness.
School Security Solutions from the ISG
Exploring and implementing new technology is likely inevitable. However, we must ensure all layers of security support and enhance foundational principles of positive school cultures, strong relationships between staff and students, and having a well-trained and informed staff and student body.
Talk with your local ISG member dealer about the possibility of an AI-driven gunshot detection solution for your school or district. In addition, we can provide your school with everything you need to identify, track and secure every part of your campus.
Your local ISG dealer member can also integrate photo ID card issuance, mobile credentials, asset tracking, visitor management, access control and campus card services into a complete school-wide solution.
Contact us to start a conversation today.
Original article written by Jason Stoddard for Campus Safety Magazine.
