Marathon

Boston Officials Will Utilize Additional Security Cameras At Boston Marathon

Security Cameras are being utilized as a strong force against terrorism. The Security Product Depot’s research confirms the increase in security cameras prevents illegal acts, identifies the criminal and provides solid evidence for a conviction. City officials and the Boston police are finalizing their plans to beef up security efforts at the 2014 Boston Marathon […]

Boston’s Legacy: Can Crowdsourcing Really Fight Crime?

For many, the first images of the Boston Marathon bombing — a cloud of dark smoke rising up over Boylston Street — came from Twitter or Instagram. The FBI received thousands of hastily snapped photos as they hunted the culprits. But does a camera in every pocket actually make snaring criminals any easier? “The Internet […]

Boston Marathon Security Upgraded With Network Of Surveillance Cameras

The Boston Marathon is getting a security upgrade with an increase in the number of eyes watching video feeds from surveillance cameras. Ten different agencies will be involved in security for the entire 26.2-mile marathon route April 21. New security cameras were recently installed. What’s new and different that has Massachusetts leading the country is […]

Increased Camera Surveillance, Bag Searches At 2014 Boston Marathon Route

FRAMINGHAM – Public safety officials announced plans for stepped up security measures at the 2014 Boston Marathon at a joint press conference with marathon organizers on Monday. There will be a significant increase in the public safety presence across the entire route this year but organizers say that they are doing everything they can to maintain the atmosphere of the race. A bulked-up public safety presence will be particularly noticeable at the start and finish lines of the race, as well as in popular spectator areas. "We are confident that the overall experience with runners and spectators will not be impacted and all will enjoy a fun, festive and family-oriented day," said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Director Kurt Schwartz. A stepped-up video surveillance and bag inspection effort is planned for the event. Spectators are strongly discouraged from bringing over the shoulder bags or backpacks to any spot along the 26.2 mile route. Searches at screening points are likely according to officials and could lead to long delays at entry points. Spectators are advised to bring all their personal items to the racecourse in a clear plastic bag similar to one they would use for passing through airport security screening checkpoints. An enhanced video surveillance program will be in place along the racecourse. The plan includes the deployment of the portable surveillance cameras that were first used at the 2013 Independence Day celebration on the Boston Esplanade. Private businesses along the course have been contacted about possible involvement in the […]

Boston Bombings Will Have Spillover Effect On Security At Popular Events In Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s Homeland Security Council has received nearly $144 million in federal dollars to prevent terrorism and respond to disasters since 2003, a fraction of the money provided to states in the last decade. Still, the April 15 attack at the Boston Marathon exposed how difficult it is to prepare for violence at an open event. Two brothers are accused of planting pressure-cooker bombs in backpacks near the finish line, killing three people and injuring more than 200 people with a pair of explosions. Law enforcement and emergency planners in Wisconsin, who say there’s a fine line between providing security and causing a public panic, expect a heightened police presence and added security checks at popular local community events because of the Boston bombings. “This has got a lot of people thinking about different events, because who would have ever thought (a bombing) would happen at a marathon?” said Lori Hucek said, Kewaunee County’s emergency government director. Mark Kohl, department chairman of the homeland security and asset protection degree at Fox Valley Technical College in Grand Chute, said the best approach is extensive planning and training for professionals and the public. While none of that is new, it’s important to emphasize in the wake of the bombings, he said. “It’s a simple example, but if they see a backpack laying out in the open and it’s not attended, people should not take that for granted,” Kohl said. “They should notify police. That’s a good start.” Nearly every community in Wisconsin […]