While there may not be one solution for schools to prevent all theft from their facilities, schools can take some practical steps to reduce the risk of crime.  Schools using more laptops, personal computers, and iPads in the education process have also created a technology-rich environment for thieves.  These small electronic items are easily sold for quick cash, rewarding the criminal for their efforts.  Precious metals, including copper from air conditioning units, are also a common target of school burglars.

In the past, schools were not an appealing target for burglars because there were minimal items worth taking.  Building security at many schools has not caught up with the value of items that need protection from criminals.  Reducing the risk of thefts in schools can be done relatively easily without incurring huge expenses.  The solutions come from following traditional crime prevention tips:

  • Keep technology out of sight.  Most criminals case their targets before they actually break into a building.  If window blinds are down and technology is stored, a thief may leave looking for an easier target.
  • Secure technology as best as possible.  In technology labs and classrooms where technology is used heavily, locking metal cages with shelves will serve to deter many criminals.  It is also best the cage is secured to the ground and not in view from windows and doors.  For even tighter security, install secondary deadbolt locks on rooms that have valuable technology items.  Interior rooms that cannot be seen from the outside, through doors and windows, work best.  In labs and classrooms where desktop computers are used, cable locks on technology can deter criminals.
  • Keep the building secure from the outside.  Installing motion-detecting bright lights can help deter criminals from coming onto your campus after dark.  Alarm systems with audible alarms that contact a central alarm monitoring station also reduce burglaries against small businesses.  Camera systems that record and maintain building activities can also help prevent crime and help catch criminals if a burglary does occur.  Improving locks on exterior doors and installing shatterproof glass on doors and windows within 40 inches of door handles are two more crime deterrents proven over time.   Also, consider fences with locks around outside condenser units.