Page 118 - Security Today, November/December 2018

CAMPUS COMMUNICATIONS
incorrect information.
• This allows for consistent training and drill. The human brain is
trained to respond to triggers. That’s why the emergency broadcast system always uses the same alert tones and the same voice. The human brain hears the familiar sound and starts to fill in the blanks of what the emergency may be. Because the brain is already pre- pared to hear the emergency, the individual can get through the initial shock and start acclimating to the sense of emergency more quickly. The consistent sound makes the emergency situation more manageable, should it arise.
THE QUICKER THE RESPONSE, THE BETTER THE RESULT
Research shows in an emergency such as a school shooting, ensuring that armed law enforcement is onsite immediately is the quickest way to end the situation. The quicker law enforcement enters the building, the better the outcome is going to be.
The best way to document and implement a plan for any school facil- ity or campus is to work with the local law enforcement agency. As indi- viduals who work within the system, they are aware of the strengths and potential pitfalls within their own local community’s response and can help educational facilities create plans best suited to each local situation.
Simply establishing an emergency response plan is not enough. Educational facilities need to practice the plan regularly and re-evalu- ate the plan constantly. Law enforcement presents an excellent example of this. Police officers constantly train. In the same way, teachers, stu- dents and others with the potential of being involved in an emergency
situation need to train.
It’s important to train correctly. Conducting an active shooter drill is
beneficial, but bringing a law enforcement agency to participate in the drill elevates the training to a new level. This can also help determine how quickly officers can arrive and assist in identifying possible naviga- tion challenges or choke points, should a true emergency occur. Regular training is particularly important for campuses with multiple facilities.
PREPARING FOR THE WORST EQUIPS
SCHOOLS TO RESPOND WITH THEIR BEST
Advance emergency preparation is necessary. Identifying, commu- nicating and facilitating immediate response in emergency situa- tions begins by understanding possible emergencies, from the most common challenges to the less familiar potential threats. Thorough- ly examine all aspects of the campus, including location, activities and events, when developing a comprehensive response plan. Con- sider the Responders, Reactionists and Revisionists for each situa- tion and determine when and how these groups are contacted. Remember that the best response plan is only as strong as the con- sistent training and practice that supports it. Make
safety and emergency training a regular priority to
ensure that the right actions and clear communi-
cation become second nature for all involved.
Tony Bradberry is the Marketing Manager for Response Technologies.
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