SeaWorld to beef up security over holiday season

SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – SeaWorld San Diego is joining theme parks around the U.S. in boosting security measures over the holidays, park officials said Thursday.

"The safety of our guests and team members along with the welfare of our animals have always been our top priority,” a statement from SeaWorld San Diego says.

"Like other major attractions and venues, we continually evaluate our existing comprehensive security plans. We are enhancing security measures at all our parks for the busy holiday season, however, we do not comment on the details of our security measures in order to maintain their effectiveness.”

The Orlando Sentinel reported that wand metal detectors are being used to check guests at the SeaWorld park in Florida, but officials at the San Diego location refused to comment on whether they were taking such a step.

Metals detectors — now common at airports, courthouses and other public buildings — are also being used at Disneyland and other theme parks. The San Diego Zoo did not immediately respond to a request for comment.