Technological leaps in the last several decades have revolutionised biometrics. The technologies are constantly evolving, spanning facial recognition to iris scanning to fingerprints, to provide new levels of security and convenience. Biometrics are everywhere, from smartphones to border control, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world. They are also more accurate and easier to use than ever. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new with biometrics?

In the complex world of physical security systems, standards can enable disparate systems to be combined to function together as a cohesive whole. Standards help to ensure that all the “pieces” fit together to create a clear, unified picture. More broadly speaking, standards also play a role in ensuring best practices are deployed in a range of security-related situations. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?

When a bomb detonated in the Port of Beirut, I had hundreds of employees under my care inside the blast zone. Within just two hours, I was able to determine who was impacted, understand their safety conditions, and share resources for on-the-ground support—all thanks to mobile technology. For Chief Security Officers, receiving calls like these launches a variety of protocols and necessary decision-making with the safety and security of people and assets as a top priority. And these calls are only becoming more common. Dependence on threat intelligence Mobile phones have dominated the post-COVID environment where people work from anywhere Threats ranging from natural disasters to geopolitical conflicts are becoming more frequent and complicate the responsibility organisations have in keeping their people safe. To meet these needs CSO’s are staying ahead of negative outcomes through creating a greater dependence on threat intelligence. In these times, effective, real-time risk management depends on hyper-local data from technology that is accessible, portable, and dynamic–such as cell phones. Mobile phones have revolutionised the way people live and work. They allow us all to walk around with a computer in our pocket, bringing the world to our fingertips and eliminating digital borders for over 90% of the world's population. Mobile phones have dominated the post-COVID environment where people work from anywhere and have geographically distributed teams but are also more vulnerable to threatening events. Mobile-friendly risk management platforms Mobile technology assigns workers with easy entry to data that can help keep them and their teams safe As we approach 2024, many organisations are adopting comprehensive risk management tools that empower personnel across the organisation with the intelligence and knowledge they need to stay safe wherever they are.  Mobile-friendly risk management platforms, such as Crisis24 Horizon, provide always-on awareness, on-hand threat intelligence, and immediate communications and distress signalling through location monitoring. Users receive location risk assessments and push notifications directly to their devices about nearby issues and threats no matter if they are on or off the job. While only select risk managers have complete control of the platform and all sensitive employee data is protected through encryption, the app distributes critical intel to foster a culture of shared awareness and responsibility. Thus, mobile technology empowers employees with easy access to information that can help keep them and their teams safe. Creating a culture of mobile technology adoption In the last few years, the world has proven the importance of being well-informed of risks and mitigation plans to minimise harm. However, psychological barriers tend to trump physical barriers when it comes to accessing the vast array of tools our mobile devices offer. World has proven the matter of being well-informed of risks and relief plans to minimise harm Adopting this technology and establishing a culture that enforces risk management across an organisation is a daunting challenge that demands substantial commitment from leadership to be successful. Some companies have tackled this challenge by positioning security technology as part of the organisation’s employee benefits package, such as commuter benefits and health insurance, to encourage people to take advantage of these resources and learn how to use them.   Cohesive risk management culture Technology is only as effective as the people whose actions it informs, which is why adoption and integration are so important. When a cohesive risk management culture meets a powerful technology platform, individuals are enabled to receive threat alerts and counter their impacts, letting others know when and how to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their team.  For more information on mobile technology and other security trends, check out the Global Risk Forecast, an annual report by Crisis24 that provides a comprehensive analysis of key events around the world most likely to affect operations in the coming year.

Frictionless systems provide access to a building without interfering at all with a user’s entry experience. Frictionless access means you can automatically pass through a gate without showing a credential or otherwise engaging, and with the system recognising who you are and allowing you to pass. In true frictionless access, everything works seamlessly, with unauthorised people obviously barred. But how close are we to realising frictionless access control? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Is frictionless access control a reality or an empty promise?

Hikvision, a world-pioneering manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, will proudly unveil its Solar Solutions lineup at a May 23 webinar, showcasing this unprecedented solution to security challenges in standalone sites and hard to reach remote locations. Attendees will receive a 50% discount on the 4 MP Kit DS-2XS2T47G1-LDH/4G/C18S40 when purchased within 30 days of the webinar. Solar Kits with ColorVu technology “From highly affordable 4 MP Solar Kits with ColorVu technology to options with 8 MP resolution and features like Licence Plate Recognition, Hikvision is bringing unmatched technology to remote and hard-to-reach locations, everywhere from rural farms to urban parking lots,” said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing, Hikvision USA. Unlike rival products, Hikvision offers a complete system, ready to deploy, with all parts included “In an era where sustainability meets innovation, Hikvision is driving the charge, with competitive technology that is easy to deploy and ready to solve end-user challenges.” Unlike competitor products, Hikvision offers a complete system, ready to deploy, with all components included. It is easy to select the best model and install it, and the entire system has been tested for safety and reliability. Six models with a broad feature Hikvision’s Solar Solutions include six models with broad feature sets for various applications: The 4 MP ColorVu Solar-Powered Security System features 24/7 full-color with ColorVu technology, human detection, and two-way audio for real-time deterrence. The 4 MP Motorised Varifocal Bullet Solar Kit is available in two models: the DS-2XS6A47G1-IZS/C36S80 2.8-12 mm (focal length/FOV) and 8-32 mm. Both feature an 80-watt solar panel and 360 WH chargeable lithium battery. Other technology includes WDR, deep-learning human and vehicle target classification, smart battery management, and a high-capacity 1TB built-in SSD. The 4 MP ANPR Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) Bullet Camera Solar System is available in two versions: 2.8-12 mm focal length/FOV and 8-32 mm. Each one boasts all the features of the motorised varifocal model above delivering valuable licence plate recognition and road traffic controls where wired network and electric supply lines are impractical or otherwise impossible. The 8 MP ColorVu Fixed Bullet Solar-Powered Camera System has 24/7 colourful video with ColorVu, WDR technology, deep-learning human and vehicle target classification, and smart battery management. It boasts a larger 80-watt solar panel and 360 WH chargeable lithium battery. By harnessing the power of the sun, Hikvision empowers businesses to improve ROI, eliminate power cords, and bid farewell to internet cables. The Solar-Powered Camera Kits deliver full-colour video security, anytime, anywhere, without the need for a traditional power supply or internet connection.

Barracuda Networks, Inc., a trusted partner and major provider of cloud-first security solutions, announced that Neal Bradbury has been elevated to the role of Chief Product Officer. In this new role, Neal will lead a unified product, engineering, and advanced technology team to steer the vision for Barracuda’s comprehensive cybersecurity platform and drive customer-centric innovation across the entire portfolio. The platform is designed to protect customers across all attack surfaces including email, networks, data, and applications. Neal’s leadership “Neal’s business leadership skills and his deep understanding of our products, technology, business processes, and market strategy make him uniquely positioned to lead our product organisation and guide our platform strategy as Chief Product Officer,” said Barracuda President and CEO, Hatem Naguib.  Hatem Naguib adds, “I’m confident that under Neal’s leadership, we will continue to find new ways to meet customers’ evolving business needs for scalable security and help our partners to safeguard their customers' SaaS applications, prioritise data protection, and improve efficiencies in the face of ever-evolving threats.” Roles in operations and technical support Neal has been with Barracuda for nine years, most recently as the SVP of Barracuda’s Managed Service Provider business. In this role, Neal led all functions, including product development, sales, and marketing. Before joining Barracuda, Neal worked at Intronis, which he co-founded in 2003. Between 2003 and 2013, Neal served as Vice President of Systems Engineering before moving on to a succession of roles in operations and technical support. In 2013, Neal became Vice President of Channel Development, where he was part of the team that led the company to a successful acquisition by Barracuda in 2015.

Quanergy Solutions, Inc., continues to gain momentum since reformulating its business operations to focus exclusively on physical security and business intelligence applications. Quanergy’s groundbreaking 3D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) solutions provide users with real-time data to detect potential threats and abnormalities for immediate remediation with unparalleled levels of precision and range in virtually any environment or operating conditions. Accelerate Quanergy’s growth Quanergy has recently announced new-generation sensors to track people and vehicles across every zone of protection from the perimeter to close interior locations, dramatically increasing security and operational efficiency. The new expanded portfolio will further accelerate Quanergy’s growth in existing and new markets, which is forecast to exceed three million sensors representing approximately $6 billion USD in revenue by 2030 according to an independent study conducted by ABI Research. Quanergy projects year-over-year growth of approximately 300% in fiscal 2024 supported by the expansion of the company’s new product offering, and sales and marketing operations across the U.S. and in select regions in the EU and APAC. Quanergy 3D LiDAR solutions Quanergy 3D LiDAR solutions are driving the next generation of physical security solutions" “Public and private organisations alike need to urgently address increasingly sophisticated threats while improving their operational and capital efficiency,” said Enzo Signore, CEO, Quanergy. “Quanergy 3D LiDAR solutions are driving the next generation of physical security solutions with 20 times higher accuracy at less than half the cost of legacy technologies.” An increased market demand for cost-efficient and accurate Perimeter Intrusion Detection (PID) solutions continues to drive high interest in Quanergy 3D LiDAR solutions. This applies not only for specialised critical infrastructure applications such as energy and water utilities, datacentres, airports and various government installations, but also for mainstream physical security and business intelligence applications at corporate enterprises, warehousing and logistics operations, and so much more. Future business intelligence applications A recent deployment of Quanergy 3D LiDAR is at San Jose Water for Enterprise Security Risk Management (ESRM), initially for automated Perimeter Intrusion Detection and to generate data for future business intelligence applications. Quanergy also recently entered a partnership with Convergint, a global pioneer in service-based systems integration to design, engineer and implement physical security solutions that provide early detection with hyper accuracy and faster response times. “Quanergy’s solutions have been chosen by some of the largest datacentres, utilities and distribution centres in the world, and we are committed to helping customers around the globe benefit from the power of 3D LiDAR.” continued Signore.

Genetec Inc., a renowned technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, announced that its new enterprise-grade SaaS solution, Security Center SaaS, gives organisations the complete freedom to choose the door controllers, cameras, and devices that work best for their business. Based on an open platform architecture, Security Center SaaS enables organisations to connect direct-to-cloud with the latest Axis, Bosch, Hanwha, and i-PRO cameras. Security Center SaaS also brings organisations’ existing access control and camera hardware to the cloud through the new range of Genetec Cloudlink™ appliances – maximising existing infrastructure investment. Newly announced connect solution Direct-to-cloud connection support for Axis, Bosch, Hanwha and i-PRO devices: In addition to an open portfolio of cameras by a range of manufacturers, Security Center SaaS takes full advantage of the newly announced Axis Cloud Connect solution, and the existing Axis Powered by Genetec network door controller. Security Center SaaS enables customers to securely connect, enrol, and manage Axis devices in a diversity of deployment options, including direct device-to-cloud streaming of video, metadata, and access control data.     The latest Bosch cameras will seamlessly integrate with Genetec Security Center SaaS. With firmware version 9.21 releasing later this year, Bosch will provide camera configuration capabilities and video viewing in the Security Center SaaS platform through direct-to-cloud connections. Hanwha Vision's Q series cameras will be fully compatible with Security Center SaaS. Over time, Hanwha Vision will continue to add support for Security Center SaaS across its entire product line to enhance its integrated systems. i-PRO will make as many existing camera models as possible compatible with the new Genetec solution through an app-based approach. Users of AI-enabled i-PRO cameras will be able to simply install an application on the camera to give direct access to Genetec™ Security Center SaaS. Genetec Cloudlink™ cloud managed appliances “The Genetec Cloudlink line of cloud-managed appliances enables organisations to modernise their security infrastructure to benefit from new capabilities. The new line of appliances facilitates the migration of security systems to a modern hybrid cloud architecture, while maximising existing security investments,” said Christian Morin, Vice President of Product Engineering at Genetec Inc.  Genetec Cloudlink™ 310 The Genetec Cloudlink™ 310 is the new generation of cloud-managed appliances The Genetec Cloudlink™ 310 is the new generation of cloud-managed appliances that push processing and storage to the edge with a secure, Linux-based Operating System and remote deployment and management capabilities.  It offers a set-and-forget experience with frictionless deployment and maintenance. Genetec Cloudlink 310 provides the simplicity of the cloud for easy connectivity and scalability, while leveraging the enterprise-grade video management features of Security Center SaaS. Genetec Cloudlink appliances family With the existing Synergis™ Cloud Link, customers can easily bring their existing or new HID Mercury-based access control infrastructure into a cloud or hybrid deployment. Part of the Genetec Cloudlink appliances family, the Synergis Cloud Link is designed to work with the latest access control technology and features authenticated communications between hardware and the cloud. This provides a safe way to truly open access control as a service (ACaaS) solution, giving customers choices and adapting to their needs for years to come. Security Center SaaS is available to be quoted and ordered immediately in all regions and will begin shipping as of May 30th. Genetec Certified Channel partners interested in early access to Security Center SaaS can contact their Genetec representative for more information. Security Center SaaS and Genetec Cloudlink will be showcased at ISC West 2024, at booth #13062.

Comcast Smart Solutions, a division of Comcast Corporation that specialises in smart technology solutions for businesses and communities, announced that it will provide the Town of Braselton, Georgia, with smart video camera technology with AI capabilities to improve public safety and emergency response. The deployment of smart video camera technology at the Town Green and Braselton Park will provide the town with real-time visibility into its community spaces, and insights into traffic patterns during events, and will increase peace of mind for residents. New technology nonprofit The town saw it as a natural progression to continue upgrading the area with technology “These advanced cameras will play a vital role in bolstering safety efforts within our town and surrounding municipalities,” said Jennifer Scott, Braselton Town Manager and Clerk. “With real-time monitoring and intelligent analytics, this technology presents an efficient and cost-effective approach to creating safer public spaces and fostering a stronger sense of security for our community members." The Town of Braselton has a history of embracing smart technology, evidenced by its support of a new technology nonprofit that provides startup incubator space in partnership with local community members and a technology-focused university. Given this background, the town saw it as a natural progression to continue upgrading the area with technology. AI video analytics solution These cameras are planned to minimise false alarms and provide quick and valid forensic hunts Now, at the Town Green, multiple smart video cameras will oversee the parking lot and areas behind the concession stands. Additionally, smart video cameras at Braselton Park will monitor the playground and parking lot near the park’s tennis courts.  Equipped with multi-sensor and multi-directional capabilities and AI video analytics, these cameras are designed to minimise false alarms and provide quick and accurate forensic searches. The video information captured, along with the AI video analytics solution will integrate seamlessly into a cloud-based application, providing the town with actionable data insights, including alerts for suspicious activity and recommendations based on traffic patterns. Smart video camera solution In collaboration with Comcast Smart Solutions, Braselton will receive comprehensive project management and continuous support. This includes a dedicated Comcast Smart Solutions project manager overseeing installations, conducting analyses, providing product training, and maintaining an ongoing support team to assist Braselton. “Delivering a seamless and reliable solution was essential to assist the Town of Braselton in enhancing safety and revitalising communal areas,” said Mike McArdle, Senior Regional Vice President, Comcast. “We’re excited to not only provide a comprehensive smart video camera solution but also offer continuous support, ensuring that Braselton residents can enjoy their parks with confidence and peace of mind.”

The Winston-Salem Police Department (WSPD), internationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), is dedicated to proactive, data-driven approaches to law enforcement. Through initiatives like "Smart Policing," a collaboration with the local community and Winston-Salem State University, the department aims for systemic change in crime reduction and community safety. Real-time intelligence Lieutenant Ben Jones oversees the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) housed in the Criminal Intelligence Bureau, a crucial nerve in the department’s operations. Under his stewardship, the team assists officers in protecting over 253,020 people across 133.7 square miles. “A more informed officer makes better decisions. We provide as much real-time intelligence as possible to detect, deter, and solve crime.” The challenge Get Connected Winston-Salem campaign integrates community-owned cameras into the police's video security Facing violent crime and an annual increase in homicides, the WSPD emphasises rapid responses underpinned by precise and accurate data. A particularly innovative step is the "Get Connected Winston-Salem" campaign, which integrates community-owned cameras into the police's video security system through Fūsus. This not only broadens the scope of crime monitoring but also exemplifies the department's commitment to collaborative crime-fighting. However, finding suspects’ vehicles was a logistical nightmare and still relied heavily on witness accounts. “We began looking at LPR solutions to assist in shootings, homicides, and cases involving vehicles.” Intelligence gathering with LPR and Multisensor To elevate its crime-solving capability, the city has strategically placed Verkada License Plate Recognition (LPR) and Multisensor cameras at traffic light intersections. “Our goal is to improve the solvability and speed of investigations by being able to identify suspects' vehicles across different intersections. We tie LPR with the Multisensor, which gives a four-way view across the intersection. No other solutions we evaluated offer this capability.” The nature of the incident When an incident is reported, the initial call is directed to the Patrol Divisions, and first responders are dispatched accordingly In partnership with the Winston-Salem Department of Technology (DoT), Jones plugs Multisensor cameras directly into the city system where there's Fiber and power. When an incident is reported, the initial call is directed to the Patrol Divisions, and first responders are dispatched accordingly. The nature of the incident determines its next course: for instance, serious shooting incidents are relayed to the Violent Firearms Investigative Team, while homicides are dealt with by the Criminal Investigation Division. Real-time Verkada Analytics “Before, we relied on witness information. Now, with Verkada and Fūsus, finding what we need can take just minutes instead of days.” The Verkada software, in conjunction with Fūsus, enhances the accuracy and speed of investigations, particularly in locating vehicles associated with a crime and finding missing people. People and Vehicle Analytics allow for the swift identification of both suspects and missing people throughout the city. Finding missing people - Detailing a success story, Lt. Jones recounts, “We found a missing person on a Verkada camera, and used People Analytics to find her at different times. We were able to confirm that she was alive at particular times, which gave investigators a starting point.” Coupled with ShotSpotter, a gunfire detection system, the team swiftly locates suspects using real-time analytics Finding suspects by vehicle - Coupled with ShotSpotter, a gunfire detection system, the team swiftly locates suspects using real-time analytics. “As soon as there is a shooting, the team uses Verkada to quickly locate suspects’ vehicles based on their description and colour." "A high percentage of violent crimes involve suspects who arrive, leave, or commit the crime from a vehicle. Verkada helps us identify where they’ve been, where they are, and where they’re headed.” Alerting with video context - Verkada goes a step beyond the image of a vehicle tag, providing a video of the car, its tag, and other vital details. “In the past, we might’ve stopped every red car. With Verkada, we have higher accuracy and less chance of mistaken identity." "I've been in the LPR market for a while and found that most solutions only give you a picture of the tag and vehicle. Verkada associates a video with each tag, so we have additional context easily available for intelligence gathering.” What's next Entering phase two, the goal is to place Multisensors closer together and increase the Verkada security These use cases with Verkada are just the beginning. Lt. Jones envisions a future where the department can seamlessly locate vehicles from one intersection to another, making suspect identification efficient and precise. Entering phase two, the goal is to place Multisensors closer together and increase the Verkada security coverage across the city. Real-time problem solving "The LPRs and Multisensor fit into our overlapping technology strategy, and we plan to increase the density of our deployment. If we’re pursuing an active shooter for example, having the cameras near our shotspotter areas allows us to use both technologies in conjunction with one another to locate the shooter.” Furthermore, by showcasing the efficacy of Verkada to other police departments, Winston-Salem aims to set a benchmark in crime-solving on the East Coast. Lt. Jones adds, “My goal is real-time problem solving; witnessing events as they unfold, not after. With Verkada, we’re turning that goal into reality.”

San Luis Obispo (SLO), the gem of California's central coast, is renowned for its picturesque vineyards, historic architecture, and vibrant community life. Quiet but lively, it is also home to the California Polytechnic State University, located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Ensuring safety and security Because of its distance from major metropolitan areas, SLO has retained its rural, small-town character, along with a bustling downtown and beautifully preserved Spanish Mission.  The San Luis Obispo Police Department (SLOPD) is focused on ensuring safety and security across expansive terrains, reducing crime, and enhancing the quality of life while upholding the principles of service and integrity.  The challenge The secluded Reservoir Canyon is just one area that has been a hotspot for vehicle break-ins For San Luis Obispo, two priorities were crime prevention and the protection of sprawling outdoor spaces popular for hiking and biking. Hidden from public view, the secluded Reservoir Canyon is just one area that has been a hotspot for vehicle break-ins. However, its remote nature made installing a traditional security system nearly impossible. The initial cost to secure three city parking structures was also cost-prohibitive, with quotes of over $1 million for network connectivity alone. Need for a robust and reliable solution "We've dealt with products that were essentially consumer-grade equipment repackaged as professional security solutions,” said Chad Pfarr, Administrative Lieutenant. "We needed a more robust and reliable solution. Creating our own was time-consuming and beyond our expertise, highlighting the need for a specialised, cost-effective solution.” Why Verkada A system that could operate in remote locations, areas typically beyond the reach of standard CCTV “We were drawn to the hardware and software quality. But what truly set Verkada apart was the willingness to innovate in ways that traditional security solutions did not. We can now bring Verkada devices into the wild, in the middle of nowhere, without traditional city network infrastructure." A system that could operate in remote locations, areas typically beyond the reach of standard CCTV technology was a leap forward for community safety. Use cases include: Protecting remote locations with the GC31 Cellular Gateway. Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) monitoring to streamline vehicle investigations. Protecting evidence in cold storage with Air Quality Sensors. Improving check-in and registrant compliance with Workplace solutions. "Verkada's willingness to venture into uncharted territory with us to ensure security systems could be deployed where they were most needed, regardless of existing connectivity, was what got us so excited. Beyond just adapting to what’s available, it’s continuously improving to meet our needs." Protecting remote locations with the cellular gateway In San Luis Obispo, the GC31 Cellular Gateway bridges the gap between the need for remote security and limited infrastructure. The police department protects areas previously deemed inaccessible without the high costs of traditional network installations, leading to savings of over $1 million for connectivity alone. Bridging the connectivity gap "Before Verkada, the idea of installing a security system in remote locations was a logistical nightmare. The cost of establishing connectivity alone was prohibitive, not to mention the technical hurdles of operating without power or a network." "But with the Cellular Gateway, we've been able to overcome these barriers, bringing security and peace of mind to once vulnerable areas." Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) capabilities SLOPD can install Verkada products in locations that are hard to wire or lack connectivity SLOPD can install Verkada products in locations that are hard to wire or lack connectivity, such as parking lots, construction sites, trailheads, and natural terrain. Within the city, the GC31 also protects busy intersections by supporting cameras with Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) capabilities. Streamline vehicle investigations Paired with the cellular gateway, CB62 outdoor bullet cameras are deployed on streetlight poles to monitor moving traffic, covering up to three lanes with a single camera. Using Verkada’s edge-based processing and computer vision technology, the LPR solution captures licence plates at speeds of up to 80 mph (128 kph). Flexibility and versatility The cameras' versatility in both covert and overt operations allows SLOPD to adapt its security tactics The cameras' versatility in both covert and overt operations allows SLOPD to adapt its security tactics to each location. This includes monitoring busy intersections, remote trailheads, or railroad crossings. This flexibility is crucial in a community that values its open spaces and balances accessibility with safety. "We've not only deterred potential criminal activities but also enhanced the overall safety for residents and visitors alike. The ability to monitor these areas remotely has been a game-changer, allowing us to extend our reach without stretching our resources too thin." Protecting evidence in cold storage with air quality sensors The introduction of Verkada's air quality sensors into the SLPD’s evidence management protocol has marked a significant improvement in securing critical evidence that requires refrigeration. “Sensors protect the evidence entrusted to us." "They monitor the conditions within our cold storage facilities in real-time, ensuring that any deviation from the norm is immediately flagged. This allows us to act swiftly to address any issues before they impact the evidence.” Sensors mitigate the risk of loss and help maintain the overall integrity of the evidence, which is crucial for the judicial process. Ensuring that evidence is stored under optimal conditions preserves its validity and reliability, which can be decisive in court cases. Guest and Workplace Solutions Verkada Guest supports security and compliance as well as administrative processes At the police department, Verkada Guest supports security and compliance as well as administrative processes and community interactions.  "We're not just looking at improving how we manage security systems; we're also opening up opportunities to better serve our community in every interaction they have with us. This is about making our department more accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of San Luis Obispo.” Automated notification "Registrants can sign in digitally, similar to the check-in process at a doctor's office. This system automatically notifies the assigned detective, who can then prepare before meeting the registrant." "It's a welcome shift from our current, more manual process, and we're excited about the potential to make our operations more efficient while improving the experience for everyone involved.” Digitisation of visitor check-in The registration of certain types of visitors is a legal requirement that, until now, has placed a burden The registration of certain types of visitors is a legal requirement that, until now, has placed a burden on the department's space and resources. By digitising the initial check-in and form completion process, the department can handle sensitive registrations with greater discretion and efficiency. "We can integrate specific forms and requirements into the Guest system." Minimising congestion "This customisation ensures that we can maintain legal compliance while respecting the needs of our community and the constraints we operate under." "Guest reduces wait times, frees up essential space in the lobby, and minimises the congestion that can occur during peak registration periods.” Solar and Battery SLOPD is also exploring alternate power options to enable more deployments across San Luis Obispo, further ensuring the safety and security of their community. "Our partnership with Verkada has already improved our operations. The next step involves incorporating solar and battery backup systems for our cameras and bridge devices. This will not only expand our public safety reach but also ensure that our security measures are sustainable and resilient against power outages."

Creating a calm learning environment where all children feel safe is a challenge for secondary schools, and for new students, in particular, they can be an intimidating place. Badly behaved pupils can disrupt others and sometimes will damage school property. Advanced detection devices, can tackle anti-social behaviour and problems associated with increasing numbers of students that are vaping. By installing a smart sensor schools can ensure that staff time is not consumed by a minority of troublemakers. These can be placed discreetly in private areas, such as school toilets and changing rooms, that would be unsuitable for video camera surveillance. Aggression detection feature Schools have found that the increasing number of students vaping within its toilets becomes a difficult issue to manage and is often associated with anti-social behaviour but monitoring can help. An aggression detection feature allows for the monitoring of anti-social behaviour. By applying machine learning a smart device can learn what the normal sound levels are and alerts when a threshold above normal is detected for a specified length of time.  An aggression detection feature allows for the monitoring of anti-social behaviour The device can then pick up when a number of children have gathered together, students shouting, signs of fighting or pupils potentially being bullied by others. An alert will be sent by email to designated staff when abnormal noise levels are detected and action can be taken quickly. This means that perpetrators of aggression against other students or those vandalising school property within toilets can be stopped and dealt with as soon as an incident occurs. Being able to do this should act as a deterrent but also mean that repeat offenders can be dealt with more effectively by the school. Most advanced monitoring devices Security and monitoring firm has been aiding schools in Worcestershire and elsewhere Security and monitoring company, Ecl-ips, has been helping schools in Worcestershire and elsewhere, by supplying one of the most advanced monitoring devices, the HALO Smart Sensor. John Speller, Facilities Manager at Hanley Castle High School, near Malvern, reported that after installing the monitoring devices, “We have really cracked down on antisocial behaviour in our toilet blocks.” Matthew Carpenter, principal at Baxter College in Kidderminster, said: “It has transformed the amount of antisocial behaviour in toilets, children are more confident in going to the toilets. It has also reduced the number of students asking to go to the toilet during lessons.” Vapes laced with THC Meanwhile, there have also been concerns by schools about vapes laced with THC, with some Burnley school children reportedly hospitalised last year. The HALO is the only vape detector on the market that can alert and differentiate between vaping, vaping with THC and intentionally masking vaping behaviour, for example, by using aerosols to cover up vaping. Charlotte Slattery, Deputy Head Teacher at St Joseph’s College in Stoke-on-Trent, said she would recommend the HALO Smart Sensor to: “Any schools who are struggling to get on top of vaping in schools, or indeed aggression, in the toilets.”