Visitors on-board with Saint Louis Zoo's new security system

ST. LOUIS - The Saint Louis Zoo is taking extra steps to protect its visitors and animals, with a new security system being implemented to ensure your visit is safe and fun.

Mary Parish was one of the first people at the zoo Tuesday morning, where the facility is in the pilot phase of implementing new security measures.

“Better safe than sorry, it’s just a fact of modern life I think,” Parish said.

The EVOLV system allows guests to walk through without emptying their bags or removing personal items.

“We were a little surprised, but it didn’t slow us down. We walked right through and it was a very smooth process,” she said.

Saint Louis Zoo Director of Security Glen Eidman said the screening setup is one of the many upgrades the zoo has been planning.

“Really our strategic plan over the last three to five years emphasized the safety for our animals, guests and staff. So, this is just another commitment, another layer that we’ve added to ensure that we do have a safe place to operate” Eidman said.

The system will detect concealed weapons at the north and south entrances.

Eidman said the feedback from guests has been positive adding the zoo security staff has a robust background in law enforcement and the military.

“People are concerned about their personal safety, and they're happy to see we’ve implemented this," he said.

Like Mary Parish, Mary Edstrohm said going through the detectors was a smooth process.

“Super fast, super easy,” she said.

She appreciates the zoo making safety a priority.

“I think it’s good, especially for little ones. Keep it a gun-free zone,” Edstrohm said.