Josh Bruni is CEO of Aires Tech, a pioneer in technology designed to protect against electromagnetic radiation and optimize human health.
Public gatherings can become threat targets, as the news often reminds us. But these events—from tranquil festivals to high-energy sporting events—are central to community life. Fortunately, innovative technologies work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep people safe without disrupting the experience.
While drones, cameras and security staff are visible, much of the technology working behind the scenes goes unnoticed. These hidden solutions are revolutionizing public safety, enabling attendees to enjoy their time without fear or disruption.
AI-Driven Surveillance: Smarter Eyes On Crowds
AI has taken public safety to the next level by bringing smarter, more responsive surveillance systems to crowded environments. With the ability to analyze crowd behavior in real time, AI systems can detect anomalies like unattended bags or unusual movements that might signal a threat.
Take this year’s Super Bowl, for example. AI cameras were strategically placed to monitor crowd density and identify potential security risks. These systems don’t just record; they process massive data in real time, detecting outliers and triggering alerts before human eyes can notice. This proactive approach accelerates response times, enabling authorities to act more swiftly.
According to Bryan Lagarde, “Project NOLA, the nonprofit crime-camera program that has been working closely with State Police, […]
deployed six mobile surveillance trailers for the Swift tour, each of them equipped with a 360-degree camera, with AI-powered features that include clothing and facial recognition and license-plate reading.” These cameras were used during Super Bowl LIX as well.
Biometric Access: The New Guardian Of Security
Good security is frictionless and integrated. Biometric access control is popularized by facial recognition and contactless entry. Both streamline the process of identifying and granting access to attendees while bolstering safety.
But here’s the rub: Facial recognition hasn’t always been popular with fans who want to preserve privacy standards at events. So rollout has been slow.
However, we’re now seeing a thaw for a simple reason: entry times. Consumers are willing to embrace safe technology if they can enter more quickly. Six MLB ballparks used go-ahead entry that allowed fans to enter 68% faster than traditional entry.
Remember when I said that good security is frictionless and integrated? Enrollment at all participating parks is run through the MLB Ballpark app. To use the new system, fans use the app to take a picture of their face, which is converted into a code, which is then associated with the fan’s account and the image is deleted.
Safe, private, frictionless and much easier to enter. You’ll see more adoption as demand inevitably increases.
The Long Play: How Tech Optimizes Long-Term Health
Not all tech deployed focuses solely on detecting and preventing immediate threats. Event attendees are increasingly aware of the health risks posed by crowded environments. As the pandemic heightened this awareness, disinfection, toxins and safeguards have become top priorities. For example, IoT sensors can monitor environmental toxins at large outdoor events like marathons and festivals, ensuring a safer experience for all.
Ready for some irony? Tech is also used to safeguard people from the very risks posed by other technologies. The pervasive tech at sports and entertainment events—from electronics to wireless technology—emits electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation, which can be potentially harmful at high levels.
For example, the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves partnered with my company, Aires Tech, to implement the Aires Certified Spaces (ACS) standard, making Target Center the first arena to adopt this approach. By incorporating Aires’ EMF-modulating products in accordance with ACS protocols, the arena aims to create an environment with reduced electromagnetic field exposure for fans, players and employees. As awareness grows, other stadiums, arenas and public venues may consider adopting similar measures.
The Starting Point: Implementing An Action Plan
Where do you start after assessing this dizzying array of invisible tech?
First, event organizers should evaluate their current security and health protocols, identifying where AI, biometrics or environmental monitoring can enhance safety. Partnering with technology providers who specialize in frictionless security and crowd intelligence can streamline implementation without disrupting the fan experience.
Next, make the invisible visible. Attendees should know what’s protecting them—from biometric entry to EMF-friendly zones—because awareness drives adoption. At my company, that’s why Aires Certified Spaces decals are prominently displayed wherever the technology is installed, signaling a commitment to safety.
Ultimately, an informed audience is an empowered one. When people understand the helpful innovations around them, they’re more likely to embrace them, shaping a future where security, efficiency and trust go hand in hand.
The Bottom Line
As public spaces grow more complex and crowded, technologies such as AI surveillance, biometric security and environmental protection are stepping up to ensure safety. These innovations don’t just improve security—they enhance the overall experience by providing peace of mind to attendees and event organizers alike.
Tech isn’t just an add-on to keep people showing up at our biggest gathering points. Seen or unseen, it’s an essential part of the framework that keeps us safe, secure and able to enjoy the moments that matter most.
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