Security companies have expanded in the wake of mass shootings. Various institutions have turned to security companies to make their businesses safer. This includes not only the contracting of security personnel, but also the sale of equipment meant to improve the security of a building. The amount of technology available to stop the next shooting continues to expand. 

Social Media Scanners

Social media scanners are an inexpensive way to detect if a mass shooting might occur. Many potential mass shooters make posts in which they talk about their desire to commit a shooting. It's also common for mass shooters to post pictures of themselves with guns. There are thousands of threat indicators that can be used to detect a potential mass shooting. Then, the individual can be reported to authorities who can intervene. 

Gunshot Detection Systems

Another useful tool is a shooter detection system. Both optical and acoustic sensors not only detect a gunshot, but also detect the location of the gunshot. The sensors create inputs that are then analyzed by a processor. Then, gunfire alerts are sent to the appropriate devices. 

One of the challenges of gunshot detection software is that there are other noises that can sound similar to gunshots, such as fireworks and cars that are backfiring. However, better software is able to differentiate between a gunshot and other sounds. Video surveillance systems can then be designed to immediately point to the location of the gunshot. This technology is best used in a high crime area where it can be used to more quickly dispatch first responders. They can also be used to deter the act of firing a weapon for fun.

Face Recognition Software

Some schools have been using facial recognition software with the goal of stopping mass shootings. Not only would it detect potential shooters, but is also used to detect gang members, sex offenders, and anyone else who is placed on a blacklist. 

It's difficult to know the extent to where security technologies should be adopted by your building. You might feel like there is a low risk for a mass shooting, but you only need to be wrong once for a tragedy to occur. There are many technologies that are ultimately inexpensive and may help an institution not only stop potential mass shootings, but solve other problems as well. However, in some cases, more old-fashioned methods, such as having a security officer on the premise, are irreplaceable.