In the face of a major security threat — including everything from an active shooter situation to a major fire — communication is central.
Whether or not security teams on site are not only communicating clearly with one another but also law enforcement and first responders can make all the difference between saving both lives and a company’s assets and absolute tragedy.
Different forms of security communications
A piece in Security Today by Monique Merhige, the president of Infusion Direct Marketing, underscores just how crucial clear lines of communication are when it comes to appropriately responding to threats in real time.
When “communication” in a crisis is being discussed, this is referring to a range of directives. This could be discussing clear protocols for evacuations from the chain of command down to staff and visitors, digital and real-time alerts and notifications, and adhering to proper and direct language needed to explain a threat to law enforcement.
In responding to a major threat like an active shooter at a school or hospital, for example, Merhige writes that modern security technology plays a central part in how effective communication can be deployed correctly. She cites access control readers, metal detectors, AI-driven video surveillance cameras, and integrated measures like wireless locks and mobile access credentials.
While it’s necessary to have all of this tech in place, Merhige adds that it won’t be effective without proper lines of dialogue with first responders in the first place.
“This includes giving first responders the situational awareness they require to make life or death decisions. First responders rarely have eyes or ears on the lockdown area, which has created a need for an easier way to communicate with responders. It is crucial to give them situational awareness so they can make decisions that yield the best possible outcomes,” she explains. “A common issue plaguing the security industry is how to disseminate information to first responders and law enforcement during an emergency.”
Combining tech with training
For one example, she points to SentryERS, an online emergency response lockdown system. This is just one brand. It’s one of many modern, integrated systems that can be used by companies, healthcare centers, government buildings, and schools to respond quickly during an attack like an active shooter or a domestic terrorist attack.
These types of systems can enable remotely locking doors and entryways, strobe light activation, disseminating audio messaging to people on the premises, and sharing live video and audio feeds with first responders, among other capabilities.
Beyond harnessing this kind of technology, all members of a security team have to be properly trained. They need to know how to utilize these kinds of systems in addition to being well versed in communicating directly with law enforcement and responders who will be needed to neutralize a threat as well as protect any personnel or building guests who are in physical danger.
For Merhige’s full recommendations, check out the article here.
Peter Cavicchia II 