How UTPD Enhanced Event Monitoring for the Class of 2024 Graduation
A Proactive Approach to Commencement Security
On December 13th, 2024, the University of Tennessee Police Department (UTPD) once again demonstrated their commitment to proactive event security. Tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of the University’s Commencement Ceremony at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center, UTPD faced unique challenges: monitoring a crowded indoor venue, ensuring the safety of graduates and attendees, and maintaining situational awareness throughout the event.
To meet these needs, UTPD deployed their RQ621 Single-Sensor Mobile Surveillance Tower from Critical Tech Solutions. This time, rather than mounting The RATT to a vehicle hitch receiver, UTPD used quick-deploy tripod legs to elevate the surveillance system within the arena. This flexible configuration provided an optimal view of the venue, enhancing the team’s ability to monitor the event from start to finish.
Implementing The RATT for Indoor Surveillance
Why The RATT Was the Right Choice for This Event
The RATT, known for its versatility and ease of deployment, was uniquely suited to the challenges of an indoor event like the Commencement Ceremony. Positioned strategically inside the Thompson-Boling Arena, the system’s elevated view allowed UTPD to monitor high-traffic areas such as entrances, exits, and the main floor where graduates and faculty gathered.
Key features of The RATT that supported UTPD included:
- Elevated Perspective: Mounted on a tripod, the RATT’s telescopic mast provided an unobstructed view of the arena floor and surrounding seating areas.
- High-Resolution Video: The single-sensor camera captured clear, detailed footage, even under indoor lighting conditions.
- Flexible Deployment: The lightweight and portable design of The RATT allowed UTPD to adapt the setup to meet the specific needs of the venue.
“The RATT enhanced our ability to monitor the event effectively without being intrusive,” said UTPD Police Chief Sean Patterson. “Its flexibility and clear video quality were key in helping us ensure a safe and successful ceremony for everyone involved.”
Delivering Results and Building Confidence
Quantifiable Impact of The RATT
During the ceremony, The RATT’s deployment provided significant advantages to UTPD:
- Improved Visibility: The elevated camera allowed officers to maintain a comprehensive view of the venue, ensuring that any potential issues could be addressed quickly.
- Enhanced Coordination: The live video feed supported real-time communication among team members, improving response times and decision-making.
- Post-Event Review: Recorded footage from The RATT offered valuable insights for post-event analysis and planning for future ceremonies.
Strengthening Security Partnerships
This successful deployment of The RATT highlights the importance of reliable tools in supporting public safety efforts during large-scale events. UTPD’s use of The RATT indoors showcased the system’s adaptability and effectiveness, reinforcing its value as a critical asset in their security toolkit.
“The partnership with Critical Tech Solutions continues to help us enhance our approach to event security,” Chief Patterson added. “The RATT’s performance at the Commencement Ceremony further demonstrated how helpful it is for our operations.”
Learn More About Mobile Surveillance Solutions
The University of Tennessee Police Department’s experience with The RATT underscores the system’s versatility and reliability in a variety of settings. From outdoor football games to indoor ceremonies, mobile video surveillance tools like The RATT provide the elevated perspective needed to ensure safety and efficiency.
Discover how Critical Tech Solutions can support your team’s security efforts with innovative, adaptable solutions. Contact us today to learn more about The RATT and other mobile surveillance systems.