A well secured campus entrance serves to control access in and out of the premises, hence reduce security risks and threats to the entire fraternity. However, this is not the only component that can be used to beef up security. There are many other security solutions in Montreal that can be installed around the school, thanks to the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). This design is used to achieve a feeling of natural surveillance, control of access and clear outlining of the territory. The following mechanisms are based on the above mentioned qualities of CPTED.
Perimeter fencing
Having a fence around the campus’ perimeter is a good way to prevent trespassers from ‘accidentally’ finding themselves in unfamiliar territory. Indeed, there is no plausible reason why an intruder will jump a fence to get into the premises unless they had an ill motive. Most fences are made of high walls with electric wiring at the top, or a thick thorny ticket hence making it hard for intruders to get in.
The fencing also serves to enclose the property hence giving it a feeling of privacy. This limits the access ways to specific entrances and exits so that it is easier to monitor both human and vehicular traffic in and out of the premises.
Defined entrance and exits
Security officers are usually placed at these terminals to man and monitor movements all day and night. They are usually found at specific spots in the premises, and have state-of-the-art security systems installed to detect any incoming threats.
It is quite impossible for criminals to get in through these access points forcefully without being checked through security features such as electronic doors or metal bars, or manually by the officers on guard. In most modern institutions, the entire campus population is issued with identity cards which have to be produced at the time of entry.
At the classroom level, there should be a biometric system which requires a fingerprint or an electronic card swipe in order to provide access. Therefore, if any threat happens to make its way past the primary entrances, it will surely not get into the classrooms.
Such electronic doors also restrict access to specific rooms which are considered to have very important information or assets. For example, not everyone can be allowed into the server room as it has a lot of important equipment that is vital for the technological operations of the entire property.
Visitor management
For visitors who want to get onto the premises, they are usually allowed to register at the main office before proceeding to their destination. When they reach the main gates, they are assigned to a guard or a student who takes them to the reception area to receive a visitor’s pass. They should also be guided on the restricted areas and suspicious behaviours which they should avoid.
The visitor area should be separated from the main campus block so that they are forced to identify themselves first before being let through. Otherwise, once they are through, it might be too late.
Reinforce glass structures
Having ceiling-high glass walls may look modern and elegant, but it is more prone to security risks. It reduces the sense of privacy as one can view exactly what is going on inside the buildings. It is also easier to break into due to its brittle nature.
In order to make them more secure, consider using reinforced glass material that is bullet proof. Such glass is coated with a reflective film on the outside hence preventing people from seeing what is going on inside the building. It is also stronger and quite resistant to forceful entry. As a rule of thumb, the glass walls should rest on a strong and stable framework on the inside.
CCTV surveillance
This mechanism is best for enhancing security by providing a feeling that someone is always watching. This reduces criminal activities because people fear that that they are being watched, and such evidence is highly admissible as proof of commission or omission of an offence.
These cameras should be modern and up-to-date with technology in that they are able to sensor objects and have a 360-degree view to cover all corners. They should also be installed in such a way that they are not easily visible by passers-by.
Panic buttons and fire alarms
Although not necessarily aligned with the basic principles of CPTED, these reactionary measures enable the occupants of the building to communicate when there is danger. The panic button can be used to send a message asking for assistance from external sources in case there is grave danger within the building. Mostly, this happens during a burglary or robbery.
The fire alarm is used to alert the inhabitants that there is a fire and they are required to vacate to avoid injury. In such cases, there are proper evacuation mechanisms provided to ease the process.
