Proper security isn’t nearly as simple as you may think. It’s very easy to leave places vulnerable or increase the chances of a security issue. Oftentimes it’s not because of what you’re doing, but what you’re neglecting to do. Overlooking these items is almost an invitation for an incident to occur.
Exits and Entrances
It’s one thing to have an eye on the front door at all times. But what about other entryways? Are there doors that only employees have access to? Do former employees still have a means of using these doors (key, card, code, etc)? How well-monitored are the windows? How secure are they? Do you have a Master Key Program? Who is allowed to make keys?
If you use physical keys, key cards, or passcodes to access the building it’s important to update these regularly. You should also make these changes whenever an employee leaves, even if they do so on good terms. Ideally, only one person would have access to create keys. Does the person really need a key if they are not in the building? Is there another strategy?
Fire Safety Plan
We all remember learning stop, drop, and roll in elementary to protect ourselves in case of fire. Being in charge of a business means being aware of the safety of other people in case of a fire. There are laws and policies in place regarding fire extinguishers and emergency plans. How often do you run fire drills with your employees? Can guests and customers easily identify exits? Do guests know where to find floor plans? Do employees know where the exits are located?
There’s also a matter of first responders. Part of our security guard jobs in Chicago requires us to be in contact with first responders such as the police or fire department. Does your property have the space needed for a fire truck? This is especially important to consider when making your fire evacuation plan because you don’t want people waiting in a high traffic area. Does your guard know the Fire Sergeant? Do you schedule quarterly meetings?
Active Shooter Plan
The armed guard certifications that Professionals are required to undergo do much more than inform of the proper way to handle a weapon. That knowledge is also necessary in the case of an active shooter on the premises. Do you have an active shooter response plan in place for your staff? Does your staff have F.R.E.D. Training? How familiar are they with all of the exits and entrances? Newer employees may not know how to navigate the building as easily as employees who have worked there for a long time. Does each floor of your building have a trained employee for Emergency Egress?
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking ‘That will never happen to me’, and there is a chance that you’ll never have to deal with a shooter on the premises. When the safety of your staff and guests are at risk, is that a chance you want to take?
Outside Help
One of the best things that you can do to increase safety and security in your building is to work with trained professionals. Aside from providing aid in times of crisis, our security guard services in Chicago can identify areas that may pose a safety risk in the future. Our guards undergo comprehensive training for all manner of emergencies and are there to help when you need it most, but ideally, they’re going to make sure you don’t need it at all. Contact Extrity today to learn more about how we can make your property safer for everyone.