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TSA recommends airports use armed guards during peak hours

TSA recommends airports use armed guards during peak hours

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Airports should station armed guards at security checkpoints during peak hours, according to new recommendations from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The TSA conducted a nationwide security review after a gunman opened fire at Los Angeles International Airport last fall, killing a TSA officer. Rather than arming its own officers, the agency is recommending that airports bring in more armed law enforcement to high-traffic areas during busy times.

"Among the issues warranting review following the LAX shooting was whether the agency could improve officer safety and security by enhancing law enforcement presence and response to checkpoints," the TSA says in its review. "The recommended standards are intended to provide visible deterrence and quicker incident response time and apply to those airports not currently utilizing a fixed post plan."

The TSA will also be requiring "active shooter training" for its officers, improving the emergency alarm system, and extending the temporary use of the agency's roaming armed forces, the Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response team. Additional recommendations for airports include enhanced training as well as coordination between security cameras and emergency alerts.