In the wake of recent events, many schools across the country have to reconsider their security measures to keep their students safe. Schools may no longer be considered safe zones where children can grow up without fear of danger. However, if you know how to best implement security measures in your school, you can keep your students and faculty as safe as possible. In this article, we listed tips that will help you keep your schools secured to make your security plan as effective as possible.
Hiring a Private Security Guard
One way you can protect your school is by hiring a private security guard. This person will be responsible for patrolling the area and watching out for potential threats. Security guards are trained professionals who have experience in these matters. They will often carry a weapon and are trained to apprehend suspects. When deciding on whether or not to hire a security company, make sure that you research them beforehand and find out about their training, company background, and other qualifications before signing any contracts.
Improve School Security From The Inside Out
School security starts on the inside out. With a little time and effort, you can create a safe and welcoming environment for students, teachers, and parents alike. Here are some steps you can take to make your school more secure:
- Install locks with digital codes so that only staff members can access certain building sections.
- Track visitors using cards or badges. This way, you know who is in the building at any given time.
- Use cameras to monitor entry points into the school.
- Use a panic button system so that every teacher can access one nearby in an emergency.
Listen to the Concerns of Teachers and Staff
Teachers and staff can be great resources for identifying threats. Listen to their concerns and work with them on the best way to address them. If they are concerned about an issue, chances are it’s an issue that needs addressing. Make sure all staff has sufficient training because it helps employees know what signs of suspicious activity to watch out for and how to respond appropriately. Security checks should take place at least once a month, but twice monthly is recommended. These checks should involve all the areas of the school, such as parking lots, entranceways, windows, etc. In this way, any problem area will be quickly identified.
Create Safety Plans For Each Building
When the threat of violence is at school, safety plans for each building must be created. The plan should include what students should do in an emergency and who needs to be notified. Schools should always have a backup generator in case of a power outage. Security cameras should be installed and monitored at all times, especially around the parking lot and entrances. Emergency exits need to be identified and marked clearly for every room in each building, along with where fire extinguishers are located. In the event that there is an emergency lockdown, you need to know how you will communicate with your staff and students in every building about what is happening.
Communicate Risks To Students And Families
It is essential that you communicate risks to students and families. Make sure to send emails, post on social media, and send out flyers so that the word can get out about how safe or not safe your schools are. Communicating risks with the students and their families will help keep them safe from knowing potential dangers before it is too late.
The most important thing you can do is make sure you have a plan. Be proactive and take precautions now. It could be the difference between having a safe school year or one filled with tragedy.