Parents send their children to school with full trust in the school authority for securing the present and future of their child. Every school should have some security measures in place.
However, it would be wrong to see security as nothing more than choosing the right control measures. Security is an attitude of mind and Security measures are tools and should be treated as such. Appropriate security measures vary with the type and size of the school and its local circumstances.
Moreover, to ensure the support of staff, it is helpful if they are involved in the planning of security measures. All school staff, teaching and non-teaching should be familiar with security procedures. Security measures can be electronic, physical or human. Here are some popular measures you can incorporate in your school business.
Technological
Technological measures such as intruder alarms, CCTV and access control systems should be installed on school premises. Staff training, systems management and regular maintenance are essential for utilising its full potential.
Thus, it is advisable to employ an independent consultant to draw up system specifications, analyse tenders and appoint suitably qualified contractors. The main benefit of using these technologies can be introduced quickly and may be very successful, but long-term success depends on staff commitment.
Physical Measures
Physical measures include perimeter fencing, secure storage, heavy-duty doors and locks, security lighting, window grilles and bars, and building. It is usually used to secure the target areas, relying on strength of materials and form of construction, and are best manufactured and installed by experts. They require little training for successful use and have low maintenance requirements and a long working life.
Human Measures
Human measures include guarding and security patrols, educational programmes, community involvement, management, and 'School- watch' type schemes. These measures require a high level of staff training and long-term commitment. In addition, Good interpersonal skills are also essential. No list of security measures can ever be complete without human security measures.
These measures attempt to either directly control behaviour or to change attitudes so that individuals choose to modify their own behaviour.
