Spike in break-ins place school security in the spotlight

The recent break-ins at local schools has put the issue of school security in the spotlight. “While there shouldn’t be much cash kept on a school property, there are other high-value items such as tablets and laptops that would make the property a target,” said Charnel Hattingh, national marketing and communications manager of Fidelity ADT.

She says it’s vitally important that schools not only think about how best to secure the property but also to prepare staff and pupils on how to react should an incident occur. “It’s also important to remember that it’s not only primary or high schools that are targeted but also smaller nursery schools and home playgroups and creches,” she added.

Hattingh said perimeter security and entry and exit point security needs to be implemented as a first priority. “Often schools have sports fields, courts, swimming pools and so on that make the area difficult to contain. There are also generally various entrances to the property. Good perimeter security is your first line of defence, so call in an expert to assess the property and identify any weak security spots. Employing guards to man the entrances may be the solution. Remember that when employing guards ensure that they are well trained and have been through the necessary screening checks.”

She urges schools to invest in reliable alarm systems and to check these at least once a month. The check needs to include all panic buttons. “Several panic buttons should be placed around the school – some static buttons such as under desks or on walls and other mobile buttons that are carried by staff.”

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She highly recommends that all staff and pupils are educated and regularly reminded of security protocols. “Run through ‘what if’ scenarios with your staff and do regular drills with the pupils, just as you would a fire drill. While incidents at schools are fairly rare it’s better to be prepared,” she said.

There have also been incidents of hijackings in school car parks as criminals follow parents in. “Schools run out of homes such as playgroups or nursery schools are especially at risk. Speak to parents about the importance of watching out for any suspicious vehicles following them as they approach the school. Make sure the gate opens and closes quickly and ensure that there is a clear line of sight of the gate from inside the house or front office area. Posting a guard outside the gate during drop-off or pick-up times is a good option,” she concluded.

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