Disneyland, Disney World and SeaWorld All Increase Security, Begin Using Metal Detectors 

Several of the biggest theme parks in the United States are increasing their security measures because of recent mass shootings and terrorist attacks occurring, uh, everywhere, constantly. Disneyland, Universal Studios, Disney World, and SeaWorld will all start using metal detectors; Disney World is also banning the sale of toy guns and costumes on visitors over the age of 14.

The Orlando Sentinel reports that the metal detectors were added Thursday at all three theme parks. Andrew Gerson, 36, was arrested last week trying to bring a a revolver with hollow-point bullets into Disney World. Gerson ran when confronted by a security guard, but eventually surrendered to police.

Disneyland officials told the L.A. Times that bomb-sniffing dogs would also patrol the park. The California-based parks obliquely denied that the recent San Bernardino mass shooting was related to the decision to step up security:

In a statement, a Universal Studios representative said: “We want our guests to feel safe when they come here. We’ve long used metal detection for special events, such as Halloween Horror Nights. This test is a natural progression for us as we study best practices for security in today’s world.”

Disneyland released a similar statement: “We continually review our comprehensive approach to security and are implementing additional security measures, as appropriate.”

Disneyland spokeswoman Suzi Brown declined to say whether weapons have been a problem at the park.

If you enjoy feelings such as fear, alienation, and an increasing sense that the violence this country wreaks upon itself will only get worse, boy are you in the right place.

Photo via AP Images