The Electronic Security Association (ESA) released its Electronic Security Guidelines for Schools Tuesday during the 2013 Electronic Security Expo (ESX). The guidelines will serve as a resource for school officials seeking to add electronic security systems to their security programs.
Providing an in-depth look at the various components that lead to an effective school security program, the guidelines will give school officials an understanding of the steps necessary for creating a security solution. This includes overall security planning, assessment of threats, procurement types, contractor selection, how systems affect schools, equipment types and system use. They will also illustrate the importance of community involvement and communication between schools and local responders.
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A volunteer panel of industry experts with extensive experience in K-12 security created the guidelines. David Koenig, an industry advisor, treasurer of ESA and partner of Capital Fire and Security in Madison, Wis., managed the panel.
“These days, schools are under more pressure to provide a safe environment for students, and technology is an important part of that,” he says. “We are all proud to be able to gather our knowledge and offer schools a practical tool they can use.”
The association has tapped professional organizations for educators and responders to help reach out to school officials nationwide. ESA will also distribute the guidelines via its chartered chapters and member companies.
ESA released the guidelines during the IceBreaker Luncheon, which featured Newtown (Conn.) Police Chief Michael Kehoe as the keynote speaker. Kehoe served as a first responder during the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy.
During his speech, Kehoe declared his support of the guidelines, citing the document as “a very comprehensive approach to security.”
“Each school is unique — different locations, ages of kids, physical layout, and so on,” he said. “This approach lets the assessment be individualized.”
The guideline can be downloaded for free here. For more information, contact ESA at [email protected].
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