School’s out for summer, so don’t let in the thieves
As the summer holidays approach thoughts start turning to sun, sea and sand, but the change in routine makes this is a crucial time for educational authorities, colleges and libraries to review their security, identify any vulnerabilities and plug the gaps.
The usual term-time hustle and bustle is replaced by a quieter campus with fewer students and staff – but this change can result in heightened security risks for property and people.
Here’s how you can be proactive and ensure you have the right tools in place to keep your premises safe and secure.
Security Enhancements
During the six-week summer break foot traffic will be lower at many buildings, which increases the risk of theft, vandalism and unauthorised access.
So before ‘school’s out for summer’ it’s important to review existing security measures and implement any necessary improvements.
CCTV
Installing CCTV will enable you to monitor sites 24 hours a day using a PC, laptop or smartphone. Intrepid Security has more than 30 years’ experience fitting and servicing CCTV systems. We have a broad range of cameras to cover all requirements, including the latest Serage C-Colour cameras, delivering full-colour images in extreme low light conditions. CCTV can be used indoors and outside to boost your security, help keep your site, staff and visitors safe, and act as a powerful visual deterrent.
Access Control
Reviewing and updating your access control systems will ensure that only authorised individuals can enter restricted areas – especially outside of regular hours.
PS Locks
Control access to cupboards, drawers and lockers by fitting PS Locks. The battery-operated, keyless locks provide staff with secure, easy access to supplies, and visitors with a safe place for their belongings. The Bluetooth and RFID operated locks can be opened with cards, fobs, smartphones and keypads. The ‘invisible’ locks are hidden from sight for a smart, designer finish.
Footfall and People Counting
Increase your security by counting the number of people entering your site, which doors they use and what time they arrive. People counters will improve the scheduling of staff to be at the right locations at the right time. The valuable business insight will drive better operational planning, marketing, product placement and customer service.
Entrances and Exits
Ensure all doors, windows and gates are locked and that none of your site’s entry points are left vulnerable. A simple checklist can be used ensure you don’t leave a gap in your security plans that can be exploited by criminals. Installing motion-senor lighting around the perimeter of a building will add a further deterrence. Thieves and vandals prefer easy targets, so make them think twice and walk away.
Equipment and Resources
It’s not just premises but also your assets that need protection. Valuable items, such as computers and tablets, can be at a higher risk of theft or damage when there are fewer people on-site during the summer.
CCTV is both an essential tool for deterring trouble, and determining exactly what happened after an incident. Good quality cameras provide detailed imaging of people arriving and moving about a site. Reviewing your CCTV system will help to identify any blind spots in coverage that a thief or vandal may use to avoid detection.
Additional methods can provide you with a comprehensive security strategy.
Make a detailed inventory of high-value equipment and lock away any devices that are not needed during quieter periods. Ensure all library materials are appropriately organised and secured – especially rare or expensive collections.
Intrepid Security’s Radio Frequency (RF) Book Security System uses a ‘book pocket’ containing an integrated RF label to protect items from theft. When a book is checked out by a librarian, a Due Date Card is inserted, which ensures the visitor can exit the library without triggering the EAS alarm system. Anyone attempting to leave the library with a book that has not been checked out by a librarian will trigger the alarm, alerting the staff.
Employees
It is essential that all your staff members are aware of your current policies and procedures, and understand how these are implemented – especially in the event of an emergency. Creating and regularly reviewing a staff log will ensure all employees have received up-to date training.
Effective internal communication is key to implementing a security plan. Ensure you have clear procedures in place that will enable your staff to confidently deal with suspicious activity, safely address incidents as guided, and escalate and report issues to the appropriate authorities.
Our Quail Digital wireless headsets enable staff to easily communicate with colleagues and managers, helping to boost security and safety, improve customer service performance and deliver greater operational efficiency and productivity.
Undertaking these security steps now will ensure your institution is both secure for the summer break and ready for the Autumn Term, giving all your students and staff complete peace of mind. Need support to summer-proof your organisation? Get in touch with Intrepid Security today and let’s have a chat.