Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Alarm New England
In today’s educational environment, the safety of students, staff, and visitors is a top priority. Modern school security systems have evolved to leverage technology and features that provide comprehensive protection. This post will explore five key features of contemporary school security systems, demonstrating how they contribute to a secure learning environment.
List of School Security System Features:
- Surveillance cameras
- Access control systems
- Intrusion detection systems
- Emergency communication systems
- Fire & environmental alarm systems
Feature 1: Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras are a cornerstone of modern school security systems, providing constant monitoring and recording of activities within and around the school premises.
A modern system will feature:
- High-Definition Video: Modern surveillance cameras offer high-definition video quality, enabling clear and detailed monitoring.
- Wide-Angle and PTZ Cameras: Wide-angle and Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras cover larger areas and provide flexibility in monitoring.
- Remote Viewing: Administrators and security personnel can access live and recorded footage remotely via smartphones or computers.
Feature 2: Access Control Systems
Access control systems regulate who can enter the school and specific areas within it. This increases school security by restricting unauthorized access.
A school access control system may have:
- Keycard/Keyfob Access: These systems use keycards or fobs to control and monitor entry to buildings and sensitive areas.
- Visitor Management Systems: Track and manage visitors, ensuring only authorized individuals can enter the premises.
- Automated Lockdown Capabilities: In the event of an emergency, access control systems can automatically lock down parts or all of the campus.
Feature 3: Intrusion Detection Systems
Intrusion detection systems are designed to identify and alert security personnel to unauthorized entry or suspicious activities. Often called burglar alarm systems, this type of security setup is typically made up of three parts:
- Motion Sensors: Detect unauthorized movement within and around school buildings.
- Glass Break Detectors: Trigger alarms when windows or glass doors are broken.
- Door and Window Contacts: Alert security personnel if doors or windows are opened unexpectedly.
Feature 4: Emergency Communication Systems
Effective communication during emergencies is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone on school grounds.
In case of emergency, it’s important to have the following pieces in place:
- Intercom Systems: Allow for instant communication between different areas of the school.
- Mass Notification Systems: Enable rapid dissemination of emergency alerts via text, email, loudspeakers, and digital signage.
- Panic Buttons: Located throughout the campus, allowing staff to quickly alert security or emergency services.
Feature 5: Fire & Environmental Alarm Systems
School fire systems and environmental alarms provide timely alerts to threats like smoke, fire, flood, and carbon monoxide. This may help reduce property damage during a fire or environmental incident. Alarms will also help alert students and staff if they are present at the time of the emergency. See below for the types of alarm systems a school should have:
- Fire Alarms: Integrated with smoke detectors and sprinkler systems to alert occupants and initiate evacuation procedures.
- Environmental Alarms: Detect hazards such as gas leaks or flooding, ensuring prompt action to mitigate risks.
Combine These Features To Protect Your Campus or School Building
For the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors it is important to have a modern school security system that includes all 5 of these features. Surveillance cameras, access control systems, intrusion detection systems, emergency communication systems, and environmental alarm systems work together to create a safe and conducive learning environment. To learn how to increase security in your school, reach out to the 50+ year local experts at Alarm New England, protecting over 150 school districts in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.
