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6 Simple, Cost-Effective Safety & Security Facility Measures for School Districts
In our previous blogs, we explored measures for school districts and the differences between safety and security facility audits versus TAP grant facility assessments.
Now, let’s delve into practical, low-cost strategies that school districts in Oregon and Washington can implement to enhance safety and security. These measures, grounded in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles and National Institute of Crime Prevention (NICP) guidelines, require minimal financial investment but can significantly improve campus safety.
1. Enhance Visibility
Prune Trees and Shrubs: Regularly trim tree branches to a height of at least 8 feet and clear bushes around parking lots and pathways. This simple step opens up lines of sight, making it easier to spot any suspicious activity and reducing areas for potential issues.
Maintain Clear Sightlines: Ensure that windows and entrances are not obstructed by overgrown vegetation. Clear sightlines allow staff and security personnel to monitor the campus more effectively.
2. Secure Perimeter
Check and Repair Fences: Conduct regular inspections of perimeter fences to identify and repair any damage. A well-maintained fence acts as a deterrent to unauthorized entry.
Close Off Unofficial Entry Points: Identify and close off any “created” additional entry points to the site perimeter. Unauthorized access points can compromise the security of the campus.
3. Optimize Lighting
Nighttime Campus Visits: Schedule regular visits to the campus at night to verify that all lighting is operational and sufficient. Adequate lighting is crucial for deterring criminal activity and ensuring the safety of students and staff.
Remove Obstructions: Clear any brush or tree limbs that block lighting fixtures. Ensuring that lights are unobstructed maximizes their effectiveness in illuminating the campus.
4. Promote Natural Surveillance
Encourage Community Involvement: Foster a sense of community ownership by encouraging staff, students, and neighbors to report any suspicious activity. A vigilant community can act as an additional layer of security.
Designate Safe Zones: Create well-lit, open areas where students can congregate during breaks. These safe zones should be easily visible from multiple vantage points, reducing the risk of bullying or other unsafe behaviors.
5. Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Routine Checks: Implement a schedule for regular maintenance and inspections of all safety and security measures. This includes checking locks, gates, and security cameras to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Seasonal Adjustments: As daylight hours increase or decrease, reminders to adjust outdoor lighting timers ensures campus areas are well-lit during early mornings and late afternoons.
6. Utilize Technology
Surveillance Cameras: While installing new cameras can be costly, repositioning existing cameras to cover blind spots can be a cost-effective way to enhance security.
Access Control Systems: Ensure that existing access control systems are used effectively. Regularly update access permissions and ensure that all staff are trained on how to use these systems.
By implementing these simple, cost-effective measures, school districts can significantly enhance the safety and security of their campuses. These strategies not only align with CPTED and NICP guidelines but also demonstrate a commitment to creating a secure learning environment.
For more comprehensive safety and security audits, R&C Management is here to help. Our expertise in conducting thorough assessments can provide your district with tailored recommendations to further enhance campus safety. Connect with us today to learn more about how we can support your safety and security goals.