There are currently over 40 theme parks operating in the UK, with tens of millions of visitors looking for an adrenaline boost every year. Considering the heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic of theme parks and amusement parks, improving safety and security wherever possible should be a top priority.
Read on to learn more about how to improve your amusement park’s perimeter and internal security systems, as well as the benefits of controlling access to theme parks to reduce the risk of trespassers, vandalism, and theft.
What are the best security measures to have in place at a theme park?
No matter how big or small, all theme parks can benefit from a robust, well-rounded security system to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.
- Perimeter fencing
From restaurants and toilet facilities to accommodation and rides, theme parks are large and can easily benefit from efficient perimeter security measures. Security fencing provides a physical barrier and an effective deterrent, minimising the risk of unauthorised access.
Whether installed around the park’s perimeter or dangerous attractions, barrier fencing can stop intruders in their tracks, prevent theft and vandalism, and protect visitors from injuries.
Perimeter fencing can also be combined with authorised access points like pedestrian gates for staff and security barriers for approved vehicles, ensuring that the public cannot gain entry to high-risk areas like ride control rooms.
- Security gates
While it’s usual to think of theme parks as an area for pedestrians, many vehicles also require access to the grounds for various tasks through theme park security gates. These vehicles are required to help with cleaning, re-stocking, and ride maintenance as well as other important tasks..
Ride maintenance vehicles, for instance, carry dangerous, heavy equipment for repairing attractions. With this in mind, having an effective traffic control system in place is essential for efficient operations and visitor safety.
From space-saving bi-folding gates to robust steel sliding gates and swing gates, amusement park managers can ensure that only approved park staff, suppliers, and vehicles can access certain areas.
Theme park security gates can also be automated, streamlining operations and ensuring a controlled flow of vehicle traffic at all times.
- Turnstiles
Theme parks have to manage and control hundreds of visitors from the very moment the park gates open. Overcrowding is a huge problem for theme parks, as it increases the risk of crushing injuries, impacts guest satisfaction, and provides ample opportunity for trespassers to gain access to the park without a valid ticket.
Security turnstiles are an excellent way of monitoring visitor flow while reducing the risk of security breaches. Most parks would benefit from full-height turnstiles, as this eliminates the risk of unauthorised personnel jumping over and gaining access.
What’s more, it also provides amusement park management staff with an easily regulated entry and exit point. Turnstiles keep visitor flow organised and efficient, maintaining high levels of safety while limiting crowd density and congestion.
- Access control systems
Access control systems can be easily combined with new or existing security measures, providing a comprehensive security approach for controlling access at theme parks. These systems have a three-in-one approach, covering physical security, digital authentication, and surveillance, all in one system.
An access control system, combined with security fencing or a security barrier, guarantees that only authorised staff or suppliers can access the area. They’d be most beneficial for protecting ride operation rooms, security rooms, and ticket sales offices.
The system only allows entry when an approved entry method is presented, such as:
- Card
- Key fob
- Biometrics
- Keypad (and password)
- Audio intercom systems (with or without video)
- Vehicle safety induction loops
- Photocell control sensors
- Coins/tokens
Why invest in theme park security?
Theme parks are some of the most popular attractions in the UK, drawing in large crowds from all over the nation.
With increased footfall, amusement parks are high-risk areas where cases of injuries due to overcrowding, thefts, trespassers, and security threats are more likely.
Theme park security solutions are a worthwhile investment, protecting your guests, staff, and equipment from opportunistic criminals.
What are the benefits of theme park security?
As well as adhering to The Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 and The Occupiers’ Liability Act of 1957 and 1984, there are many benefits to investing in theme park security measures:
- Guest and staff protection: To ensure all visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Crime and terrorism prevention: To minimise the risk of pickpocketing, unauthorised entry, and fraud.
- Positive guest experience: To encourage repeat visits and better reviews in a safe environment.
- Avoid lawsuits: To avoid being liable in the case of a security breach.
- Unauthorised access prevention: To stop revenue loss and dangerous crowding in the case of tailgating entrants.
Upgrade your theme park security with Security Solutions
Our team at Security Solutions has been providing high-risk facilities with reliable security measures since 2003. From manufacture and design to installation, we will work with you to deliver a bespoke theme park security system that meets your safety requirements.
We also offer a service and maintenance contract on all of our security products. We will take on any breakdowns, repairs, replacements, and upgrades for your peace of mind.
For any information about our security measures or if you’d like to discuss your tailored security solution, don’t hesitate to get in touch.