Over the past decade electronic security technology has evolved from an exotic possibility into an essential safety consideration. Before resorting to high-tech security solutions, school officials should think carefully about the potential for unintended consequences. Technological fixes may be mismatched to the problems being addressed. They can…

Discusses the uses of building security systems to prevent loss from damage by vandalism in school buildings. Outlines types of systems, selection of systems, and current practices in securing schools. (MD)

Examines ways of adequately providing the security of middle schools while creating an environment in which students and staff feel at home. Areas covered include architectural strategies to encourage better communication, controlling vandalism, and preventing unauthorized people from entering the building. (GR)

Describes one high school's use of video cameras as a preventive tool in stemming theft and violent episodes within schools. The top 10 design tips for preventing crime on campus are highlighted. (GR)

Describes how a New Hampshire school system eliminated internal school vandalism and bomb threats, and reduced the number of false alarms, by using video security software (WebEyeAlert security solution) that is accessible via a variety of methods from remote locations. (Author/EV)

This guide addresses school vandalism and break-ins, describing the problem and reviewing the risk factors. It also discusses the associated problems of school burglaries and arson. The guide then identifies a series of questions to help analyze each local problem. Finally, it reviews responses to the problem, and what is known about them from…

Describes the security system used by Schaumburg Township (Illinois) Community Consolidated School District to reduce vandalism. The system includes "master key control" to restrict access to keys, an after-hours alarm system, guidelines for community use of buildings, protective community attitudes, and full prosecution of vandals. (RW)

Discusses how vulnerable lockers are to vandalism and thieves, offering examples from various athletic facilities of both forcible and "light-fingered" theft. (EV)

Despite the reports of violence in schools, the vast majority of America's schools are safe places. Nevertheless, students, teachers, and parents have real fears about school crime and violence problems. This report is a guide to combat these fears and problems. The report presents an updated description of the nature and extent of crime and…

Campus vandalism has become extremely costly for colleges and universities. Most vandalism occurs on weekends and during special events and is committed by both students and outsiders. Its results affect the entire campus community, either immediately or in increased costs. Successful preventive measures include penalties, police patrols, and good…

The school's responsibility is to provide an effective learning environment for students to achieve academic success. The California Safe Schools Assessment (CSSA) collects data on individual incidents of school crime from all California public schools and county-operated education programs. The California Department of Education strongly…

This handbook introduces students to essential elements of preventing crime at school by making sure the design, use, and upkeep of the facility do not provide opportunities for criminal behavior--crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED). It discusses how to identify problem areas and the steps to take to make sure these problems are…

Discusses the benefits of school library security, software security, and computer security systems. Describes specific products for each type of security system. A sidebar lists names and addresses of security manufacturers and distributors. (AEF)

Identifies specific steps that child care centers can take to reduce the chances of burglary and vandalism. Differentiates loss prevention, loss control, and risk financing. Includes discussion of layering defenses, perimeter protection, security lighting, building surface security, locks, and alarm systems. Discusses the importance of reducing…

Guidelines for developing a security system that promotes safe and vandal-free schools are offered to administrators in this handbook. Areas covered are: (1) a security checklist; (2) identification of security needs and development of an action plan; (3) a school incident reporting system; (4) comparison of a secure and a nonsecure school; (5)…