Keystone Fire and Security recommends that university professionals invest in a system that incorporates both intrusion detection and access control. An integrated emergency communications system provides maximum reach and multiple channels. With the help of access control specialists in Allentown, PA, you can build an intuitive system that’s easy for professionals and students to use.
It’s important to conduct regular training and drills to maintain familiarity with communication protocols. First, however, you need to stay abreast of advancements in technology that can help you create a more secure campus.
Types of Campus Emergency Communication Systems
If you’re part of the administrative or security team at your university, it’s important to know the different emergency communication systems available to protect your faculty, students, and staff members. An emergency may strike at any time, but you can protect every area of campus with a layered strategy. From cameras to emergency phones to automated detection devices, you can maintain a safe learning environment.
What Are Emergency Communication Systems?
Send real-time alerts to students, faculty, and staff simultaneously. You can use emails, voicemails, and text messages to send out warnings and directions. Mass notification makes it easy to spread accurate information quickly. This can prevent confusion and facilitate evacuation instructions in the case of a major emergency. From shelter locations to evacuation information, emergency communication systems give you control and help prevent panic. You can also tailor information for different audiences.
Public Address (PA) Systems
PA systems have come a long way from their origins. Automated systems broadcast important announcements all over campus or to specific areas. When you need to provide instructions or facts as they unfold, a direct address system is the most effective means of doing so. That’s especially true if cell towers go down or other forms of communication become difficult.
Desktop Notification Systems
These software-based systems deliver pop-up alerts directly through your campus network. You can use this approach to reach faculty and staff members without alarming students or to broadcast messages to every PC connected to your network. Desktop notifications convey detailed instructions better than announcements in certain cases. If you need to communicate a lot of information quickly, desktop notification systems make that possible.
Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)
An IDS acts as a sentinel, guarding your students and staff members around the clock. When you need to monitor access points remotely, intrusion detection systems provide the perfect way to do so. You can prevent unauthorized attempts to enter computer systems and restricted areas. IDS systems can trigger alarms or notify security personnel when a problem arises. You can also customize how you handle potential security breaches.
Access Control Systems
Access control systems regulate entry to dorms, labs, offices, and other secure areas. Choose from key cards, fobs, or biometric scanners when implementing these advanced systems. By restricting access to sensitive areas, you can protect valuable equipment, research data, student records, and the people who maintain them.
Combining Systems for a Cohesive Strategy
How can you effectively communicate with and protect the people on your campus? The most effective approach combines multiple technologies. Redundancy ensures that critical information gets to your campus regulars and VIPs via reliable communication protocols.
Here are a few best practices to keep your campus communicating effectively:
- Regularly test emergency communication systems, IDS, and access control systems.
- Develop clear emergency communication plans that outline the specific protocols for various emergencies or security threats.
- Conduct training sessions to familiarize faculty, staff, and students with access control procedures and other security systems.
Contact Emergency Communication Specialists in Allentown
Looking for assistance with access control and intrusion detection systems in Allentown, PA? Turn to the experts at Keystone Fire and Security to set up a consultation today!