SC State Fair launches property-wide camera system for safety, traffic monitoring | Community Spirit

With the safety of patrons being the primary concern at the South Carolina State Fair, it comes as no surprise that fair operators are turning to new advances in technology to help enhance their security operations

Recently, organizers installed a property-wide network consisting of 18 cameras – most of which have the ability to remotely pan, tilt and zoom – that provide wireless video monitoring of the grounds, gates, traffic areas and parking lots. The video feeds are transmitted wirelessly, providing the capability for them to be recorded on a DVR as well as watched in real-time at security headquarters, on laptop computers, and even on the staff's iPhones.

“Safety is always our primary focus, and I am impressed with just how well this system works,” said the SC State Fair Director of Finance and Technology, Dan Douglas. “I know the fair's environment is about the most challenging environment that you can put wireless technology into.”

In addition to the security-enhancing aspect of the network, Douglas says the system provides the additional benefit of monitoring traffic – something that is important when you hold an event like the fair, which attracts about a half a million people each year.

“It helps make the fair experience better by helping to monitor traffic flow, allowing us to make adjustments at the gates and parking lots and with our staff,” he said.

Douglas also said there were plans to expand the system.

“With 100 acres, there are still a few spots where we would like some additional coverage,” he said.

The supplier of the wireless technology is WildFire Connections, a company that specializes in the design, construction and management of “City-Wide and County-Wide Wireless IP Data Networks” for local governments and their public-safety and emergency management agencies.

“WildFire Connections was pleased to join with South Carolina State Fair organizers to create security enhancements that will help with the safety and security of patrons while simultaneously providing the added benefit of being able to monitor traffic, gate and parking concerns,” said WildFire Connections CEO, Bob Dunlap