Heightened security

In the aftermath of 9/11 and other terrorist attacks, school systems are developing new forms of school security and crisis preparedness to guard against future terrorist acts. National School Safety and Security Services, an Ohio-based consulting firm specializing in school security, offers these security recommendations, according to Eschoolnews.org:

* Review school crisis guidelines and make sure they include lockdown and evacuation procedures, alternative evacuation sites and family reunification procedures.
* Maintain a balanced, common-sense approach to school safety and security. School and safety officials should maintain a heightened awareness for potential spin-off incidents, including bomb threats.
* Review security issues relating to all school staff, including support personnel such as secretaries, custodians and bus drivers.
* Communicate hot lines numbers that students, parents and members of the community can use to report safety and related concerns.
* Use school district call-in lines and web sites to provide ongoing information to the school community.