Walt Disney World, Seaworld, Universal install metal detectors at theme parks

Metal detectors. And they’re not just coming to Disney World.

Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal Orlando have introduced new security measures as the USA remains on edge over terrorism.

Disney said it has added other “visible and non-visible security measures” over the past few weeks, including uniformed law enforcement personnel and specially trained dogs.

According to fan site The Disney Blog, the ban on toy guns will include fantasy toys such as the Buzz Lightyear laser gun.

After a man was arrested for trying to enter Magic Kingdom with a firearm, Disney World is no longer selling toy guns inside their theme parks.

Among the security measures being implemented, Disney has stopped the sale of toy guns, including squirt guns at Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

Disney said the metal detectors were part of its “comprehensive approach to security and are implementing additional security measures, as appropriate”.

SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando will also begin using metal detectors.

None of the parks made clear exactly how long the new security procedures would last. The changes also affect Disneyland and Universal Studios in Hollywood. Universal says its metal detection use is a test and won’t discuss specific future plans. He said in an email to the Orlando Sentinel, “we want our guests to feel safe when they come here”. The theme parks are now taking the same level of precautions that many sports stadiums and airports have had. It’s a similar process that’s used during Halloween Horror nights.

The metal detector will be on both sides of the esplanade area and in front of the monorail station at Downtown Disney.