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SPECIAL FOCUS K-12 SECURITY By Greg Peratt Situational Awareness on Campus The ideal system integrates multiple technologies T otal situational awareness on campus is critical for the safety of the staff and student body. Everything from video surveillance cameras, to digital signage, to mobile computers plays a part in equipping teachers and campus safety officers with essential tools for the classroom. When deployed strategically, these technologies create an integrated communications system that can improve safety and efficiency, lower costs and improve services provided by educators. When serious situations arise, digital signage can play a valuable role in communicating important information campus-wide. By having signage throughout an institution, schools are able to broadcast important information such as extreme weather conditions or notify staff and students of a potential threat on campus. Schools susceptible to dangerous weather, for example, need an outdoor solution that can withstand extreme heat or cold environments. Digital signage provides a quick and efficient way to convey as much information as possible in both indoor and outdoor settings. In classroom environments — whether a K-12 or university campus — it is difficult for administrators, teachers and campus security officials to know 38 what is going on at all times in every classroom or building. Video surveillance plays an important role in these situations and is the most effective tool in monitoring what is going on at any given time throughout a campus. Most campuses include digital signage which can be used to deliver real-time emergency notifications when necessary. IP wireless camera systems are often used because they integrate seamlessly with the existing IP network and are easy to install. With IP video surveillance, administrators and security professionals both on site and off have the ability to access video footage at any time. In the event of an emergency, a 911 call center or mobile command center could be given access to video footage, providing them with the critical data they need to see what is happening in real-time. After an incident, (continues on page 93) www.SecurityInfoWatch.com | SD&I; | September 2013