This week marks National Safe Schools Week. Systems integrators are joining efforts with school administrators to address the increasing problem of school safety. By educating themselves about best practices, administrators can become proactive with their physical security efforts. Here are a few good resources to consider:

PASS (Partner Alliance for Safer Schools) is comprised of two associations: Security Industry Association (SIA) and National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA.) Members include school officials, safe schools’ consultants, law enforcement and security industry experts. Together, PASS members strive to collaborate and develop security solutions for K-12 students and staff. PASS promotes designing quality video surveillance systems and using a collaborative approach which includes the integrator and consultant.

Based upon both the identified risk (demographics, location, local crime rate, etc.) and funding availability, administrators can use a “tier” system in their risk mitigation efforts.

Security guidelines can be broken down into four tiers.

Tier 1:

• Video needs to be networked and have remote access
• Store achieved video for a minimum of 14 days
• Ability to expand and meet subsequent guidelines

Tier 2:

• Tier 1 guidelines
• Increase the number of cameras to cover more area
• Minimum storage capabilities increased from 14 to 21 days

Tier 3:

• Tier 2 guidelines
• Increase the number of cameras to cover more area
• Minimum storage capabilities increased from 21 days to 28 days

Tier 4:

• Tier 3 guidelines
• Increase the number of cameras to cover more area
• Live streaming integrated with mobile applications to enhance situational awareness

For more information, please read the Safety and Security Guidelines for K-12 Schools

Other related articles: Texas School District Video Surveillance Case Study