Experts: Americans oppose extra security

Only an imminent threat would change their minds, according to research.

SCRIPPS HOWARD

Few people want to turn public spaces into fortresses with checkpoints and metal detectors, experts say, despite the shock of fatal gunfire in a mall in Omaha, Neb., and a church and missionary dorm in Colorado.

In Israel, where terrorism is a constant concern, shoppers are accustomed to pat-down searches, metal detectors and opening bags for inspection.

But the only way U.S. shoppers would accept such a system would be if the Department of Homeland Security raised the threat level to red, or severe danger, according to focus-group research conducted by the International Council of Shopping Centers.

“If there’s no imminent threat, shoppers don’t want to be impeded,” said Malachy Kavanagh, vice president of the New York-based trade group. “The reason is, most people shop within 15 miles of their home, three to four times a month, and it’s almost an affront to them. They feel like they know the stores, and it’s part of their community.”

Instead, retailers have stepped up their security with more uniformed guards and visible video cameras.

The attacker “will see the guard and say, ‘Hey, this is not a great place for me to try. I’m going to look for a softer target,’” said Harry Rhulen, whose Golden, Colo.-based firm, Firestorm Solutions, helps schools, businesses and others prepare for catastrophic events such as terrorism and shootings.

Firestorm’s clients include one of the nation’s biggest retailers, whom the company isn’t allowed to name. But Rhulen said not every store is willing to spend the time or money to prepare for a disaster response.

“Preparedness requires cultural change. It’s hard to imagine during the festive holiday season that someone out there wishes us ill will,” he said. “But I’m telling you that there are plenty of people, especially when you’re talking about a Christian-based holiday, who want to strike a blow against capitalism and a religious holiday at the same time.”

The holidays are the busiest time of the year for retailers, when they make anywhere from 20 percent to 40 percent of their annual sales. The throngs of shoppers make it difficult for employees and store security to keep track of potentially suspicious people.