Risk Reporter for Educational Facilities

Spring 2016 Vol. 4, Issue 1

Protection (buildings and grounds)

An ounce of prevention keeps buildings, grounds safe

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s especially true when it comes to security and protecting school property. Not being prepared now could spell trouble later. To help avoid a potentially dangerous and costly situation, make sure you’re following these practices to harden your school’s perimeter:

  1. Upgrade your outdoor lighting

    Using the right size lamps and fixtures helps create a feeling of safety for teachers, students and administrators. A great reference to check out before installing your outdoor lighting system is the U.S. Department of Energy’s Exterior Lighting for Energy Savings, Security, and Safety. You can view and download the free publication at http://tinyurl.com/zsrhwns.

    Also consider replacing any incandescent lights with LED bulbs. LEDs are a little more expensive, but they last longer and are typically brighter and more energy efficient.
     
  2. Install security cameras

    Today’s digital cameras can connect wirelessly to a recording system in your main office or directly to your security provider. Install them near doorways and other high-traffic areas. Make sure your cameras are near a light source so the images on your video are clear.
     
  3. Consider audible alarms

    Many times, audible alarm systems are overlooked in favor of silent alarms. The sound of an alarm, however, is exactly what you need to signal an emergency. The sound also can alert neighbors and the surrounding community to the potential danger.

    Many alarm systems now come with a pulsating strobe light that is visible for miles. This helps you or authorities pinpoint the exact location that needs attention.
     
  4. Install deadbolts

    Deadbolts provide the best possible security for interior doors. Consider them for faculty offices, storage rooms and the like. You can get models that use letter combinations, passcodes or even your fingerprint to open doors.
     
  5. Consider an electronic keycard system

    Many schools today are replacing traditional key systems with keyless, electronic cards. With a keyless system, you can:
  • Manage a person’s access via computer
  • Identify who used specific doors (and when)
  • Deactivate a keycard when a staff member leaves your school
  1. Add safety curbs and barriers

    If you think of your grounds as concentric circles, you want to be sure you have the right safety equipment in each area. In the outer circle, safety typically means controlling foot and automobile traffic.

    Terraces, raised plant beds, trees, planters, fencing, gatehouses and bollards also are good protective tools. Many schools are using these types of alternatives to divert traffic, provide added security and beautify their grounds.

    Consider temporary barriers for special events or graduation ceremonies, too.

     

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Editor: Amy M. Kimmes akimmes@churchmutual.com

Risk Control Advisor: Edward A. Steele, CSP, ARM esteele@churchmutual.com

 
 
 
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P.O. Box 357 | 3000 Schuster Lane | Merrill, WI 54452-0357
Telephone (800) 554-2642 or (715) 536-5577

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Church Mutual is a stock insurer whose policyholders are members of the parent mutual holding company formed on 1/1/20. S.I. = a stock insurer.