Thanks to ongoing developments in AI technology and cloud computing, campus security teams are able to make more efficient use of limited resources by automating a wide range of essential security processes. Frontline systems like access control, security cameras and alarms can all be connected via a unified remote-access platform to measurably improve incident responses.
Teams of all sizes can receive real-time updates regarding potential security threats, with some systems able to be fully automated to ensure dangerous incidents are addressed as quickly as possible. With intelligent solutions customized to the unique needs of individual facilities, teams can reliably protect students and staff from multifaceted threats to provide 24/7 security support.
For school administrators, security personnel and IT teams wishing to improve existing security systems and streamline their workflows, this short guide will cover a variety of technologies and intelligent integrations designed to strengthen school security responses. Here’s how automated technology is making schools safer with support from remote-access controls and real-time data.
AI-informed incident detection
AI video analytics software integrated into existing video security systems can be deployed to help campus security staff identify potential threats with unmatched efficiency. AI programs are able to autonomously scan areas of interest in search of anomalous events, with customized alerts programmed to notify on-site staff remotely of suspicious activity for further investigation.
AI-informed cameras can detect the presence of contraband items, crowds forming in unusual areas or similar unfolding incidents such as suspected physical altercations, with notifications then sent directly to admins’ smart devices if connected to a cloud-based management system.
This automated approach to incident detection can be particularly beneficial when used to aid smaller security teams, enabling on-premises personnel to focus their attention on matters of immediate importance without requiring individuals to manually assess live video feeds. Instead, teams can perform daily patrols with reassurance that incidents will be brought to their attention.
Custom access control models
A variety of property access functions can also be automated with the development of bespoke access control models. Administrators can reliably manage entry to low-risk and high-security locations by utilizing software solutions designed to assess credentials based on pre approved rules and roles. Ensuring high-risk areas like server rooms are protected from external threats.
For example, software may be programmed to permit entry to main entrances and public areas for anybody carrying school-issued credentials, though access control readers used to secure private locations like student housing will only accept student or staff-issued access credentials.
Permissions can be programmed and adjusted by security teams at any time via access to the site’s wider cloud-based management system, allowing admins to view live access events and revoke specific credentials if they’re suspected to have been compromised. With staff also able to access and view additional systems like security cameras to investigate suspicious activity.
Automated lockdown systems
By developing integrated school security systems operated from a cloud-based management platform, teams can install numerous Internet of Things (IoT) devices able to autonomously control the operation of physical security hardware. This means if IoT sensors detect specific events, wider security systems will be immediately engaged to improve incident response times.
Examples include IoT sound sensors programmed to lock access points and trigger alarms if sounds consistent with a break-in are detected, IoT heat sensors configured to activate fire suppression systems if temperatures rise above a certain threshold, and IoT motion sensors used as automatic alarm initiating devices to warn staff of intrusion events in restricted areas.
Additionally, systems can be programmed to allow chosen admins to activate full-site lockdowns remotely. Unique parameters may be set to notify staff of unfolding incidents, like AI cameras identifying contraband items, with on-site teams receiving alerts sent to personal smart devices providing password-protected options to trigger a full-site lockdown or activate specific systems.
Silent panic alert systems
While automated lockdowns may be triggered by school security teams or authorized members of staff, students will typically not be granted access to installed security systems. However, if a threat is first identified by a student, they must be presented with some method of activating a security response. This can be achieved via the installation of an automated panic alert system.
Discreet panic buttons can be installed in classrooms and private student areas, with each unit connected to a wider cloud-based security management system. When a button is activated, a signal will be sent to integrated access control locks and alarms to trigger a full-site lockdown.
In addition, systems can be configured to send an instant alert to local authorities to request a response from law enforcement officials, acting to dramatically reduce incident response times and ensuring all intrusion events or similarly dangerous incidents are appropriately addressed.
Summary
Modern school security systems must be suitably equipped to provide an immediate response to various physical threats, though for security teams with limited resources, monitoring and managing installed security devices can be a particularly difficult and time-consuming task.
By developing intelligent school security systems featuring integrated IoT, AI and cloud-based technologies, security personnel are able to develop bespoke automated responses designed to protect students and staff from multifaceted threats. With support from AI video analytics, IoT sensors and custom access systems, response times can be reduced to improve school safety.