Blog

Sign up to receive our blog posts in your inbox.

 

 

School Security Preparedness: An ABC Approach to the Active Shooter Threat

Active shooter incidents in U.S. schools continue to be a significant concern. In 2023, the FBI reported 48 active shooter incidents across the country, with 105 fatalities and 139 injuries. These figures represent a 60% increase in active shooter events since 2019. As a new school year resumes, it is imperative that educational institutions adopt and maintain comprehensive security strategies to mitigate this growing risk. Let’s review key areas of focus contained within an “ABC” approach that can help protect students and staff.

Dog Detection Spotlight - Michael and Honey

The city of Boston enjoys a rich history and reputation for some of the most hard working and successful Americans, from sports to academics. Among them is Allied Universal® Field Supervisor Michael Cataldo and Explosive Detection Canine Honey. Part of Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services, they are one of 1,000+ Canine Detection Teams working throughout North America.

The Paris Olympics: Venue Security Up Close

Hugh O’Rourke | Vice President, Consulting Services

As the anticipation builds for the 2024 Paris Olympics, security concerns are heightened. While this long-awaited event will showcase the world’s most accomplished athletes, the safety of all participants and spectators is paramount. Extensive preparations have been underway to achieve this crucial goal.

Mitigating Risk During High-Profile Conventions

As with every Presidential election, the Republican and Democratic National Conventions are scheduled for this summer. Safety and security precautions are always at the forefront of these events, but in light of the July 13 attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, they are being increased to new heights. Given the high-profile nature of these events, which draw politicians, delegates, activists, media, and protesters, they can serve as a magnet for hostile actors intent on causing harm.

SME Top Takeaways to Address Threats Facing Soft Targets

A gunman entered the parking lot of a large supermarket in Boulder, Colorado, on March 22, 2021, killing 10 people. Three years later, active shooter events continue to be on the rise throughout the country, particularly for soft targets. Shopping malls, schools, houses of worship, theatres and offices are attractive to terrorists seeking to inflict mass harm. Today’s most persistent threats are not exclusive to firearms. For example, in our last blog, we explored the recent uptick in bomb threats aimed at these same soft targets.

Detection Dog Spotlight: Erik and Milo

After many successful years on the job, there is just no slowdown in this pup! Meet Enhanced Protection Services Explosive Detection Canine Milo. His handler, Erik Georgi, is proud to work alongside the eight-year-old black Labrador who he says consistently impresses him with boundless stamina and passion for their work.

Detection Dog Spotlight: Melissa and Whip

We’ve all heard the metaphor “smart as a whip” that has been used to describe mental sharpness and keen ability since the mid-nineteenth century. Well, meet Enhanced Protection Services Explosive Detection Canine Whip. Alongside her Enhanced Protection Services Canine Handler Melissa Carrero, this 6-year-old black Labrador is really living up to her name every day.

Detection Dog Spotlight: Austin and Zane

While Valentine’s Day is behind us, we can’t pass on sharing a feel-good love story. Meet Enhanced Protection Services canine handler Austin Sprankle and his partner Zane II. After separating for a year while Austin deployed with the U.S. Marine Corps, the pair recently reunited to resume their work as an Enhanced Protection Services Explosive Detection Canine Team. Austin admits it was extremely hard being away from his partner for 12 months but says that the love they have for one another – and their work in sniffing out explosives – is as strong as ever.