10 Considerations for School Security Technology
Schools are difficult to protect since they generally have large exterior spaces, many entry points, and limited resources for reactive security technology and for hiring additional security personnel. Additionally, there is no “cure-all” solution that does it all. A successful physical security technology strategy must rely on multiple layers of security solutions working in unison—like cameras, object detection software, and access control systems—to give first responders precious time to respond to and stop active shooters.
To help you determine whether a vendor can deliver an effective solution that keeps your schools safe from gun-related violence, here are ten key considerations you should review.
Technological Considerations
1. Verify that the technologies can actually do what they’re supposed to do
Federal government accreditations are the clearest indicators of whether a technology is effective in accomplishing what it claims. The gold standard is recognition by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the SAFETY Act, which was signed into law after the 9/11 terrorist attacks to help encourage the development and adoption of technologies that could assist in the defense against terrorism. The SAFETY Act program evaluates the effectiveness of technologies through rigorous analysis of data, processes, and methodologies and provides levels of recognition, each with increasing liability protection for claims resulting from an act of terrorism.
2. Prioritize proactive over reactive technologies
When an active shooter is capable of killing dozens before a 9-1-1 call can be made, every second counts. Reactive technologies can’t help change the course of events as they unfold—think regular door locks or unmonitored security camera recordings that are used only during a post-crime investigation. Instead, opt for proactive technologies that can be used to dynamically identify and/or hinder threats in real time.
