Keeping schools safe should be a priority for every community.
Chapter 16 of the Federal Commission on School Safety’s report outlines key strategies to help schools address safety risks effectively.
By following these recommendations, schools can reduce the chances of violent incidents and protect students, staff, and visitors.
Establishing a Security Team
Every school needs a team to focus on safety. This group manages the planning, training, and implementation of security measures.
Members might include school leaders, emergency managers, school resource officers, and outside partners.
Collaboration with local law enforcement, fire departments, and community leaders strengthens this effort.
Conducting Risk Assessments
Before improving safety, schools must identify weaknesses. Risk assessments help evaluate current security measures and identify areas for improvement.
Schools can perform these assessments internally or hire experts to provide detailed evaluations.
Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs)
Clear plans are essential for responding to emergencies.
Schools should develop EOPs that include instructions for different scenarios, such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, or active threats.
Regular training ensures everyone knows their role during an incident.
Improving Physical Security
Physical upgrades to school buildings can significantly enhance safety. Examples include:
- Limiting access points to control entry.
- Strengthening windows and doors with resistant materials.
- Installing locks that can be secured from inside classrooms.
- Adding surveillance cameras to monitor activity in key areas.
Using a Layered Security Approach
Layered security combines multiple safety measures.
Each layer adds another barrier, delaying threats and protecting students and staff.
For example, perimeter fencing, controlled access points, and classroom locks work together to create a secure environment.
A Path Forward
School safety isn’t about overhauling everything at once.
It’s about taking practical steps that fit the needs and resources of each school.
Strong teams, smart planning, and thoughtful upgrades can make a big difference.
Stay tuned for future posts breaking down these recommendations in detail.
If your school needs help with security assessments or upgrades, contact us today to get started.
