Arkansas schools are not legally required to install safety and security window film.
However, the Arkansas Department of Education and the Arkansas School Safety Commission strongly recommend the use of shatter-resistant film as part of comprehensive school safety strategies.
This proactive measure can play a critical role in protecting students and staff from potential threats.
What Does Arkansas Recommend?
While there’s no mandate, the state provides clear guidance on improving school safety. Two key recommendations stand out:
1. Shatter-Resistant Film
The Arkansas Department of Education advises schools to apply shatter-resistant film or other reinforcements to glass and windows. This measure helps prevent unauthorized access and delays forced entry, providing critical time for staff and law enforcement to respond.
2. Comprehensive Safety Assessments
The ADE Commissioner’s Memo emphasizes the importance of conducting regular safety assessments. These evaluations focus on:
- Identifying vulnerabilities in school buildings and grounds.
- Assessing accessibility and emergency preparedness.
- Prioritizing upgrades based on identified risks.
- Read the ADE Commissioner’s Memo
Why Consider Safety Film for Schools?
Although not required, safety film offers several benefits that align with Arkansas’s recommendations:
Delays Forced Entry
Safety film holds shattered glass together, making it harder for intruders to gain access. This delay can be crucial in preventing escalation and providing time for first responders to arrive.
Protects Against Natural Disasters
Arkansas experiences severe weather, including tornadoes. Shatter-resistant film reduces the risk of injuries caused by flying glass during high winds or storms.
Cost-Effective Solution
Compared to replacing all windows with reinforced materials, safety film is an affordable upgrade that enhances the security of existing glass.
The Role of Safety Assessments
Conducting regular safety assessments ensures schools remain aware of their vulnerabilities and can prioritize security improvements.
These assessments, as outlined by the ADE Commissioner’s Memo, help schools:
- Evaluate the effectiveness of current safety measures.
- Plan upgrades like safety film, fencing, or access control systems.
- Ensure compliance with state guidelines and best practices.
How Risk Strategy Group Can Help
At Risk Strategy Group, we work with schools across Arkansas to enhance safety and security. Through our partnership with a window film provider with 27 years of experience, we deliver high-quality solutions tailored to your school’s needs.
Our Services Include:
- Safety and Security Film: Affordable protection for glass surfaces, including shatter-resistant options.
- Risk Assessments: Comprehensive evaluations to identify vulnerabilities and recommend actionable improvements.
- Fencing Solutions: Secure perimeters with anti-scaling designs and controlled access points.
- Training and Emergency Operations Planning: Equipping staff with the knowledge and strategies to respond effectively in emergencies.
Contact Us for a Free Assessment
While Arkansas doesn’t mandate safety film, implementing it as part of a proactive security strategy is a smart choice.
If your school is looking to enhance its safety measures, contact Risk Strategy Group today for a free consultation or quote. We proudly serve schools across Arkansas.
