Budgeting for Security

• By Ralph C. Jensen
• Jul 01, 2014

It seems odd to me that people talk about school or campus security in terms of having a budget. I do understand that there is no endless resource for new equipment and technology, but really, security measures and technology should get top billing. 

In our cover story, Patrick Fiel addresses that very point of security on a budget. I’ve known Fiel for many years and his pedigree in the security industry is nothing short of amazing. He was the chief of police at Washington, D.C. schools for several years and his stories are well worth taking to heart.

When you read what Fiel has to say, I think you’ll find his advice pretty straightforward. He talks about careful planning and meeting security needs without breaking the bank. Too often, administrators buy equipment on the spur of the moment. They should, however, consult with security professionals or a risk management professional when buying new technology.

Fiel also talks about securing the entry of a school. Layers of security at a school are no different than layers of security at an airport. The bottom line: Keep the front door locked at all times and make sure there is someone on staff approving entrance into the facility, once the visitor has been checked out.

I hope you enjoy and take to heart all that Fiel has written. We have had numerous conversations over the years about security at schools. Fiel knows what he is talking about when it comes to the student educational experience.

I would hope the people holding the purse strings will have an opportunity to read about security. There are far too many stories after the fact, when students’ lives have been put needlessly on the line.

Education and violence don’t mix.

Our other writers/ reporters in this section of Security Products magazine offer our readers careful insight into protection at all levels, and in one instance, securing a medical facility.

This article originally appeared in the July 2014 issue of Security Today.