When the yearly Consumer Electronics Show (CES) commences on January 7 in Las Vegas, participants will likely observe a heightened police presence throughout the multi-day gathering. Organized by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), CES is adopting increased security measures due to recent occurrences.
John T. Kelley, the vice president and show director of CTA, addressed safety issues in a statement to *Mashable*, mentioning the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas on New Year’s Day.
“In light of recent unfortunate events, we have strengthened our already comprehensive security protocols,” Kelley remarked. “We continue to assess the situation and maintain close communication with our security collaborators and law enforcement personnel.”
The Cybertruck incident, which officials confirmed was a suicide, led to the demise of the driver and injuries to seven bystanders. Fireworks, gas canisters, and other items were recovered from the vehicle, as stated by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
“Ensuring a safe and smooth experience for everyone is our utmost priority,” Kelley stressed. “We are partnering with trusted entities, including government agencies at all tiers, to ensure robust security, advanced infrastructure, and essential services. This enables attendees to concentrate on fostering growth and forming valuable connections.”
Cat Forgione, director of CES communications, chose not to provide further details regarding specific security measures, emphasizing the necessity of confidentiality. “We have extensive security protocols in place, and the best way to safeguard the event is by not elaborating on those measures in detail,” she conveyed in an email to *Mashable*.
A spokesperson from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that additional officers are routinely assigned to large-scale events in the city. However, they refrained from commenting on any extra measures being implemented for CES.
### Security Measures at CES
CES has delineated its security protocols on its website to guarantee attendee safety. Key measures include:
– **Badge Pickup Requirements:** Attendees must show government-issued photo identification to collect their badges, and badges cannot be retrieved on behalf of others.
– **Bag Restrictions:** Rolling bags of any dimension, including laptop and computer bags, are not allowed. Attendees are encouraged to use clear bags and can bring no more than two small bags into the venues.
– **K9 Units and Security Checks:** K9 dog units will be positioned at venue entries, and random security checks will take place.
– **Vehicle Deterrence Plan:** As part of an expanded security strategy, a vehicle deterrence plan will be executed near principal venues.
Additionally, the CES app offers a method for attendees to report suspicious activities directly to CES or venue security. In the case of an emergency evacuation, updates and instructions will be conveyed through the app, CES social media platforms, and public announcements.
CES continues to be one of the biggest trade shows for consumer electronics and technology, attracting significant interest from industry leaders. Last year, the event drew in over 138,000 attendees. This year’s exhibitors feature major corporations such as LG, Samsung, Siemens, L’Oréal, and Panasonic.