Much of the recent news about school security has dealt primarily with higher-tech hardware such as mass notification systems, biometrics, and such. However, it’s important for educators to know that implementing a robust intrusion coverage system is one of the most effective ways to reinforce physical security in any school.
Intrusion coverage is best defined as an integrated security system for detecting and deterring safety risks such as intruders, hazards, and internal threats. The school environment is fraught with several security perils. An intrusion coverage security system offers numerous protections, such as:
- Protecting both staff and students from harm
- Managing unexpected hazards such as natural disasters, fires, and utility outages
- Evacuating or directing students and staff during emergencies
- Managing access authorization throughout the school premises
- Preventing theft and vandalism
Intrusion coverage combines several security measures, tools, and resources. Let’s look at the main components of a comprehensive intrusion coverage system for schools.
Active surveillance
Round-the-clock professionally monitored audio/visual surveillance — a longstanding Sonitrol Great Lakes product and service — is a vital part of any security system. We ensure there are enough security cameras in strategic spots around the school such as entries, classrooms, along the school’s perimeter, hallways, alleys, and seemingly secluded areas.
Monitored doors (instead of access control)
Although access control has its place in security systems, monitored doors is also an effective method of controlling the movement around school premises with numerous entrances. A door monitoring system tells you the status (open or closed) of any door at any time. You can also lock and unlock specific doors remotely. And the system can be configured to trigger an alarm, notification, or other action once a door is opened or closed after hours.
Glass break sensors
Glass break sensors — another Sonitrol Great Lakes product — detects high-pitched sound frequencies or shock waves made by shattering glass or splintering wood. After positively detecting such noises, the device fires an alarm or triggers additional investigative action from professional monitors, who can notify law enforcement.
A glass break detector sits in the first line of defense against intrusion. Unlike other internal sensors, glass break detectors catch intruders before they’ve even entered the building, as demonstrated by many police apprehensions over the years.
Motion detection at entries
Active motion detectors work by emitting ultrasonic soundwaves that bounce off objects. The sensor picks up and analyzes the reflected signal. If an object moves, it disrupts this echo-like wave movement, and the sensor quickly detects the disturbance. Installing motion detectors near all the school’s entries enables door automation and helps keep a close eye on the ins and outs.
Alarm sequence – monitoring abilities
A comprehensive intrusion coverage system includes professional alarm response measures. Schools need a dispatch response for unwanted alarms, such as forced door opening, after-hours movements, system disarm, broken glass, and duress calls. It’s also important to log and record all alert events, even the false positives.
Sonitrol Great Lakes has been protecting schools for more than 50 years with the latest, most reliable security protection systems. Contact us to learn more about intrusion protection systems and our other products and services for the educational community.