Between 2000 and 2017, 250 active shooter events occurred in the United States, resulting in 799 fatalities.
An active shooter is defined by The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as “an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area; in most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.”
These statistics, paired with an increase in school-related violence nationwide, have driven faculty, students, and parents to make substantial changes in the way security measures are carried out.
School Board Executives have begun implementing a number of Security & Emergency Preparedness tactics throughout campuses and facilities that include various physical security technologies and associated training programs.
Here are three suggestions to be considered:
- Integrate Physical Security Technology: Security technology provides greater control and oversight. For example; an access control system could allow administrators to effectively and efficiently manage who and when can enter critical areas of the building. Furthermore, by integrating video surveillance with your access control, you can visually confirm protocol and ensure proper execution.
- Establish Emergency Response Protocols: In the event of a crisis, time is critical. A well-designed Emergency Response Plan can provide the pre-meditated systematic decision-making to reduce confusion and hesitation. With proper training, practice, drills, and exercises it is possible that the execution of protocol can improve in such a way that may save property and lives.
- Ensure Compliance: Compliance as it pertains to emergency response and security may or may not be a requirement. Either way it is essential to find a trusted security advisor to ensure your organization meets the current standards to avoid negligence.
Secom’s Security & Emergency Preparedness Division helps commercial, institutional, and government organizations prepare for security and emergency incidents. Our certified specialists can aid your faculty and staff in developing protocols in the event of:
- Acts of terrorism
- Active shooters
- Natural disasters
- And more
Additionally, we regularly provide facilities throughout the country with state-of-the-art security systems including access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and more.
Contact us today to learn more or fill out our form to request additional information.