Introduction
Like many learning institutions across the world, schools and campuses in United States are faced with quite a number of challenges. Insecurity in learning institutions is one of the main issues that require immediate attention. The number of reported cases regarding security breaches in campuses and schools have been rising every passing week. To curb the problem, and bring the situation to full control, effective strategies must be designed and implemented to counteract the situation. School and campuses security departments will benefit greatly from recent security surveys, statistics and recommendations in implementation of measures geared toward safeguarding schools and campuses populations and properties.
Main text
A quick review of recent incidences will help us all in understanding the magnitude of insecurity in learning institutions. Two months ago, six students from Cincinnati University were enjoying their evening watching TV when three men burst into their apartment. One intruder pointed a gun at the student while the other two frisked them off cell phones, digital cameras, laptops and cash worth more than $5,000. Later the student managed to chase the fleeing burglars and subdued the one who had a gun. In the resulting confrontation, the gun went off injuring one student in the leg. Quick police response helped in arresting the burglars and putting them behind bars.
According to National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse 2007 report, every two out of five students in United States take alcohol at least five times per month. The report further shows that liquor contributes to over 600,000 students injuries and 1, 7000 death every year. Over 95 percent of violent crimes committed in campus are committed by students under the influence of alcohol. Drunken students are also an easy target of thugs and are likely to become crime victims.
Another insecurity issue in US campuses is the increase in fires. Campus housing apartment blazes doubled between 2000 and 2007, from 2,000 to 41,000. Closer investigations in campus housing fire reveal a worrying trend. In most cases, smoke detectors are disabled by students. In case a fire breaks up; it is usually very hard to respond quickly due to lack of early warning signs. Properties worth thousands of dollars are lost in campus housing infernos.
Introduction of Emergency Notification System (ENS) is one of the strategies that will go a long way in addressing insecurity issue in school and campuses. In the event that an incidence occurs in one part of the campus, the security department can inform the student by the use of cell phone messages, advising them on what they should do. The students can also report insecurity incidences to the relevant authority and get swift assistance. Use of electronic boards, “e-boards” placed in strategic spots within the campus compound to flash insecurity warnings can also go a long way in addressing insecurity issue.
To curb insecurity related to alcohol consumption, campuses and schools should consider adapting various methods to convince students to spend their leisure time engaging in constructive activities. If the student must drink, they should be advised to drink in moderation. This approach has worked effectively in the University of Northern Illinois, which has seen a 44 percent drop in alcohol-related insecurity cases in the past 10 years.
To address insecurity issues resulting from campus fire, the administration must make sure that they adapt modern smoke detectors which can not be disabled easily. Regular maintenance of such detectors will contribute significantly in early fire detection. Regular fire drills involving students will also help in preparation in case of a fire emergency. Safety glasses should be a top priority to the university administration.
Summary
When implemented, these strategies will help reverse the insecurity challenges facing United States schools and campuses. The implementation should start immediately if student confidence is to be restored and save the image of the campuses. The concerned parties in every state and institution might also want to consider frequent reviews of the insecurity situation so that appropriate solutions can be put in place where and when necessary.