With the school year back in session, the time has come to think about how to prepare for any emergency that can happen. Whether it is related to the weather or not, you need to know how to plan for before anything happens on your campus. Here is a guide to considering the different factors involved in school security when it is time to get ready for an emergency.
Focus on Training
One way to get started is to focus on training for the authority figures within your school. What this means is that all administrators, teachers, and support staff need to be kept up to date on the latest techniques and ideas on how to protect the grounds and the students under their care. Preparing the faculty and student body is the best way to help prepare for any emergency, and professional development days can incorporate this as another topic for discussion. Given current events, it is even more critical than ever before.
Improve Existing Security
As secure as you think your school is, it can always be safer. Do whatever you can to improve existing security measures. Having school resource officers who are vigilant and compassionate about the students they look out for is already a step in the right direction. But you don’t need to shackle yourself to the idea of only relying on technological solutions such as video cameras and metal detectors. A robust sign-in/sign-out process for visitors can help, as can access control systems attached to all doors leading into buildings, not only the front doors.
Revise Current Plans
All plans need to be revised. The beginning of every school year represents a fresh start, and before students are welcomed back, the strategies are tested and retested and continuously revised. But this process can and should continue during the school year, primarily based on the results of fire drills and other drills conducted throughout the academic year.
Enhance Relationship with First Responders
Improving your relationship with first responders also makes a difference. There is only so much that the staff and faculty at your school can do. By involving the first responders who are closest to your school, they will know what to expect and can respond more quickly.
Trust the Professionals at ARK Systems
Located in Columbia, Maryland, ARK Systems provides unsurpassed quality and excellence in the security industry, from system design through to installation. We handle all aspects of security with local and remote locations. With over 30 years in the industry, ARK Systems is an experienced security contractor. Trust ARK to handle your most sensitive data storage, surveillance, and security solutions.
Contact ARK Systems at 1-800-995-0189 or click here today. Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!