Security in Schools has Never Been More Important
Posted 9th June 2016 by Helen LeachSchools (primary, secondary and further education all included) have changed a lot in the last 10 to 20 years. Buildings and facilities have improved methods have advanced and above all else, the use of technology has increased.
Where once you might have had a couple of BBC computers, you now have top of the range Macs, iPads and other tablets and expensive PCs, both in classrooms and offices. That doesn’t include the numerous smartphones that children bring with them to school and can often be left behind.
It all adds up to making schools very attractive – and often very easy – targets for burglars. It is imperative that schools take a look at the security measures they have in place to keep their premises safe and secure from would-be thieves.
This means identifying all the weak spots such as windows and doors and investing in security measures to prevent forced prevent.
Window Security
When it comes to window security in schools there are a number of options available. The choice that schools choose will depend on the size and location of each window. A ‘one size fits all’ solution is unlikely to be viable.
For easily accessible ground floor windows, schools will want a strong, visual defence that doesn’t affect the aesthetics of the building – after all, no child wants to learn in a place that looks like a prison!
We would recommend choosing either window Roller Shutters or the contemporary design of the Hammerglass Window Guard.
The former provides a very visual deterrent and barrier to burglars at night or when the school is closed and don’t affect the look of the building when school is in session as they can be rolled up out of sight.
They can also be powder coated to match the existing colour scheme of the premises too.
Hammerglass Window Guard is a less obtrusive but equally stronger security measure. Fitted externally in front of windows in its own frame, Hammerglass Window Guard is barely distinguishable from normal windows but can withstand almost any attack.
It is virtually impenetrable by rocks, baseball bats, axes – anything a would-be burglar might bring. They will soon give up trying to gain entry when they realise they simply can’t break the glass and the noise they are making is likely to attract attention.
Windows on higher storeys could need less obvious and unobtrusive security. For there, fixed window bars or retractable window grilles would likely be the ideal solution. Both can be fitted internally, protecting the look of the building, while still providing strong protection from break-ins.
Door Security
School doors are another weak point, accessible by burglars. In most cases roller shutters are the only real option and provide ample deterrent and protection, especially on public facing doors. Schools, though, have many external doors and having to open and close roller shutters on an almost daily basis could prove time consuming.
While roller shutters should be fitted to the most vulnerable doors there are likely to be others that are less accessible and fitted with windows. Here, strong locks and protection for the glass only would suffice.
In this case, fitting Crime Shield would protect from burglars breaking the glass and gaining entry should they head in that direction.
If you’d like to discuss your school security and protect your highly expensive technology, speak to our experts on 0161 413 0766 or get a free online quote now.
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