November 1, 2024Podcast

Zeroeyes Active Shooter Detection/Prevention Software

Today on the Disaster Podcast brings on a technology story built around the tragedy of school shootings in the U.S. The founders determined that it might be possible to detect the presence of active shooter before they began to fire their weapons. If advanced AI tech could identify the shooter before shots were fired, then lives could be saved, by early alerting of the target organization and police agencies.

ZeroEyes technology delivers a proactive, human-verified visual gun detection and situational awareness solution. It integrates into existing digital security cameras on a site to stop mass shootings and gun-related violence. Jonathan Norton, VP of Commercial Sales for ZeroEyes comes on the show to talk about their ground-breaking software and human verification service that completes the process to eliminate false positives causing needless lockdowns.

Also on the show is meteorologist and disaster technology expert Kyle Nelson, along with co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis.

Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary

Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.

Podcast Discussion Summary

Jon Norton, VP of commercial sales at ZeroEyes, will be the guest on the disaster podcast to discuss his company’s technology. Sam and Kyle provide weather updates, including an early season snowstorm in the Central Rockies and dry conditions in the northern plains.

ZeroEyes: Origin and Security Insights

Jon shared his background, having served on active duty in the army for 6 and a half years and then working at ZeroEyes for almost 3 years. Sam expressed interest in Jon’s military background and its relevance to security issues. Jon then discussed the origin of ZeroEyes, which was born out of the tragic Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018. The company’s founder, Mike Laif, was inspired to create ZeroEyes after his daughter came home from school distraught following a lockdown drill. Jon explained that their research showed that active shooter events often have a common pattern, with the shooter brandishing their firearm in full view of cameras before entering the building. This early indicator could potentially prevent future tragedies.

Addressing Security Limitations and Proactive Solutions

Jon discussed the limitations of current security measures in preventing shootings, particularly in the logistics industry where most incidents occur outside and involve employees. He highlighted the issue of employees being aware of security postures and working around them. ZeroEyes introduced a proactive solution using digital IP cameras to turn existing security cameras into sensors that can detect visible guns, providing early warning to law enforcement and first responders. Sam expressed her appreciation for this approach, emphasizing the importance of protecting first responders and the potential of this technology to prevent damage.

Addressing Security Challenges in Hospital Networks

Jon discussed the challenges faced by security directors at large hospital networks, such as Hackensack Meridian, in effectively responding to incidents due to the lack of real-time monitoring and the inability to implement active shooter lockdown procedures. He highlighted the advantage of using ZeroEyes, which extends the security perimeter out to the furthest camera view, providing early warning and proactive implementation of emergency response plans. Sam agreed, noting the extensive reach of the Hackensack Meridian’s camera network. Jon then explained the workflow of ZeroEyes, including the verification of alerts in their operations center and the dispatch of alerts to law enforcement. He emphasized their goal of saving lives and preventing suffering from gun-related violence. Sam expressed interest in the potential users for this system.

Integration of Technology With Alerting Systems

Kyle asked Jon about the integration of their technology with existing alerting systems on campuses, such as Alertus. Jon confirmed that they integrate with any open API platform, including virtual management systems and mass notification systems. He emphasized the importance of key leaders being alerted proactively upon the presence of a gun, allowing them to make effective decisions. Jamie asked about the process of integrating with existing processes when onboarding a new client, to which Jon explained that it starts with a compatibility audit and involves acquiring necessary data like camera location and IP address.

System Effectiveness and Integration in Facilities Security

Jon discussed the effectiveness of their system in protecting clients and ensuring their facilities are secure. He mentioned that they conduct practice drills for active shooter scenarios in various facilities, including schools, corporate, and government facilities. Jon also highlighted the importance of integrating their system with existing tools and procedures, and the need for training to ensure employees’ safety. Kyle asked about the system’s deployment in outdoor events and temporary facilities, to which Jon responded that they have contracts with the Department of Defense to develop the platform for various markets, including commercial and military. Jon also mentioned their involvement in protecting an F1 (Formula One) event and a fallen Service Members’ annual run.

Mobile Analytics Integration and Safety Act Recognition

Jon discussed the integration of their analytics platform onto mobile platforms, which would enhance their clients’ security and extend the detection window for events. Sam highlighted the company’s recognition as a promising anti-terrorism technology by the Department of Homeland Security, having achieved the full designation under the Safety Act. Jon emphasized the importance of this designation, as it validates the company’s claims and provides end users with confidence in the platform’s effectiveness in their environments.