The tragic homicide in Bethesda Row this week was not easy to anticipate. We often look back with what-if’s and different actions that might have resulted in a different outcome.

Electronic security systems can have a material impact on an outcome if used consistently. While security systems are only effective if procedures are followed they can also force procedure compliance if properly setup.

The outcome of attacks, like the one at Lululemon Athletica in Bethesda Row this week, may be impacted with these systems and/or actions:

• Anytime staff enters a facility they should: enter, lock the door behind them, disarm the alarm system. It is fundamental that the door be locked BEFORE the alarm system is disarmed giving the staff member the opportunity to use an ambush code if necessary.
  
  
• Alarm systems may be “supervised” to verify if and when a system has been armed. A typical configuration is to notify the managers, guard patrol, and others if a system is not armed at 11PM. Furthermore, notification rules can be added so that if the system is disarmed after a certain hour managers are notified.
  
  
• An alarm system feature, primarily used by banks, called “verified open” or “early morning ambush” can be very effective in this type of scenario. In a verified open the entering staff member must disarm the system when they enter the establishment. They then must disarm the system again within a pre-determined number of minutes (e.g., 5). This gives them the opportunity to walk the store and verify there are no ambushes or threats. If they fail to re-disarm the system after the defined period a duress signal is sent. This functionality is only available on specialized commercial alarm systems and not available from most alarm companies.
  
  
• While cameras do not significantly deter or prevent a crime they can serve as important forensic information and can support other processes. Managers getting a call at 11:05 to indicate a system was not armed can remotely view the video. Having remote access to video can make it easier and more effective to respond to notifications from a proactively monitored system. 

These are only some of the strategies for mitigating risks and outcomes. And some do add to the installation or monitoring costs of security systems. Urban Alarm is available for educational sessions for your business or community group.

• About Us
• Residential Alarm System
• Commercial Security
• Multi-Unit Properties
• Alarm Monitoring
• Access Control
• BLOG
• Media Resources