It seems safety is on the minds of residents a lot these days, whether you’re driving through your neighborhood or going on a lengthy journey.

For many years, security measures have been established pretty much everywhere we go — many in response to major incidents and disasters — from airports, to hospitals, to stadiums and arenas. This list includes local schools, where entrances are closely monitored and students and teachers, as well as visitors, have to pass through sophisticated detectors.

One of the more visible examples is at the entrance to courthouses, police and sheriff’s stations and other government offices, whether everyone is greeted by a security guard watching a bank of monitors or made to walk through a scanning system.

Weirton is taking some new measures in an effort to further protect those visiting the Weirton Municipal Building, as well as those who work there.

City Council last week unanimously approved a resolution to purchase new metal detector scanners and hand-held detectors, at a cost of $29,957. The new equipment will add another layer of security to the building, which opened in the 1970s.

Yes, there are cameras installed throughout the building, and the facility also is home to the Weirton Police Department, but that doesn’t necessarily prevent people from bringing items which could present a hazard or danger to others inside.

It’s surprising the upgrades did not come along sooner, especially when local courthouses, schools and other government facilities in our region have had similar measures for years.

The new detector units likely will offer no more than a minor inconvenience, officials explained, with people walking in between the pillars as they enter the building.

Weirton officials have noted plans for additional security are in the works. It’s a shame that ever-growing levels of security need to be added to public facilities, but it’s good to know area officials are taking steps to make those buildings and venues as safe as possible.