Harford County Public Schools has decided to introduce the use of Open Gate weapon detection systems at sporting events, school dances, and other events being hosted by the school. They will primarily be used in high schools, but if middle and elementary schools feel the need for them, they will be utilized.
This system will allow for an extra layer of security at all school events. It is similar to any other metal detectors that you may see at NFL games or concerts. All you do is walk through the system, and it will alert the people who attend the machine if you are possibly in possession of a weapon. From there they will do further inspection.
The first time these detection systems were utilized at Fallston High was during the season opener for men’s lacrosse. The systems did their job, but they did it a little too well. For example, one of the problems that was found was with people wearing steel toe boots, which would set off the alarm. Many parents work in an industry where they must wear this type of shoe, and they aren’t thinking of changing when going to watch their child play. This was just one of the issues that was found with the machines.
But when talking further with Mr. Collins, the principal of Fallston High, another problem was that there weren’t enough people to tend the machine and make sure everyone made it through without a problem. This is an issue because it causes the lines to be longer and more backed up. Schools will continue to debrief about the problems occurring in order to make this transition as smooth as possible. This is more of a “practice run for next year,” says Mr. Collins. So, we are mostly likely to see these machines more and more.
Schools in Harford County are required to use these systems for at least three of their sporting events this year. Those dates will not be released, so be aware when you attend those games. It is still up in the air about if they will be utilized at all events in the 2025-26 school year. But they will most likely be used at events like football games and school dances.
