Safety and security consistently rank as top priorities for school administrators, with recently published data revealing 98% of schools operate managed access control systems and upwards of 88% utilize video security cameras. However, as the threats facing modern schools continue to evolve, so too must the way we approach physical security systems.
While basic devices like school security locks and CCTV cameras will always be essential, modern campus security teams are increasingly turning towards smart solutions to ensure students are protected from novel threats. From AI-informed video analytics software to the Internet of Things, below are 4 advanced security technologies to future-proof your school.
1. AI video analytics
Video security cameras are an integral part of any effective security network, though legacy systems can be cumbersome and time-consuming to operate. Rather than dedicating limited resources to manually monitoring traditional CCTV systems, security teams are increasingly turning towards artificial intelligence to help create autonomous incident detection programs.
AI video analytics software can be integrated into existing video security systems to improve incident responses. AI programs can autonomously detect suspicious behaviors like crowds forming in unusual areas or unknown vehicles entering school grounds, with security teams notified remotely to provide a response. This allows teams to always focus their attention on immediate threats, helping departments with limited resources work with improved efficiency.
2. Panic button systems
Considering there are over 500 students enrolled in the average US school, it can be difficult for security teams to effectively address all unfolding concerns. However, if an emergency is to occur, the speed at which alarms are raised will impact the efficacy of response protocols.
By developing tools that allow faculty members to quickly report potential threats, security staff can improve response times. School panic buttons installed in classrooms or deployed as part of a mobile app enable teachers to immediately alert security staff and authorities of unfolding emergencies, ensuring threats are addressed as quickly and reliably as possible.
3. Mobile access control
Mobile and cloud-based technologies are among the most effective ways to future-proof school security systems. It’s estimated that 85% of Americans own a smartphone, with these figures rising among younger demographics, meaning the development of mobile-operated security systems will likely improve accessibility for both students and faculty members alike.
Mobile access systems replace easily lost physical credentials with digital data stored in the user’s smartphone. These credentials can be combined with scheduling systems and wider security tools like school panic buttons to create a unified school security app. This allows security teams to view and analyze access events remotely, as well as receive automated alerts warning of suspicious activity, with staff able to revoke access instantly if necessary.
4. Integrated IoT devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of electronic devices designed to exchange data wirelessly and in real-time. IoT devices are continuing to transform school security by enabling teams to develop automated incident responses. In essence, installed IoT sensors are programmed to activate wider security tools automatically in response to specific events.
For example, IoT noise detectors may be used to trigger alarms and engage access control locks if sounds consistent with a break in are heard, while IoT heat sensors can be used to activate fire suppression systems. By developing a network of these devices integrated into existing security systems, teams can create automated lockdowns and incident responses.
Conclusion
As technology becomes more advanced and smart solutions become more accessible, school security teams are afforded the opportunity to transform outdated systems. From autonomous software programs designed to improve threat detection, to seamless access control solutions, advanced security technologies are positioned to improve campus safety.
By enabling security staff to analyze and adjust devices remotely, and developing automated alerts to help teams focus their efforts on unfolding threats, administrators can make more efficient use of resources and improve response times. The development of holistic security systems supported by these technologies will help to protect schools from modern threats.