Police recommend CCTV, strict access control measures in Abia schools

Abia State Police Command has recommended essential safety guidelines for school authorities, parents, and students. ASP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Abia State Police Command, unveiled these security strategies in a statement released in Umuahia.

The statement advises school management to:

1. Conduct thorough security assessments of their school premises.
2. Identify vulnerable areas and ensure the placement of security personnel at critical entry points.
3. Employ trained security personnel who should collaborate with the police for additional support.
4. Install and maintain Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations within school premises for monitoring activities.
5. Implement strict access control measures, including the use of access cards and visitor logs.
6. Require all visitors to sign in and obtain visitor passes.
7. Train staff on various security situations such as fire, lockdowns, and evacuation procedures.
8. Establish clear lines of communication with local law enforcement agencies and the community for information sharing and updates.
9. Encourage the prompt reporting of any suspicious activities around school environments to security agencies.

Additionally, the statement urges parents to:

1. Maintain open lines of communication with their children in school to stay informed about security updates or changes in school policies.
2. Provide schools with updated emergency contact information to ensure they can be reached in any emergency situation.
3. If their child commutes to school, ensure they use safe and reliable transportation options and are familiar with the details of the route and driver.

These measures aim to enhance the safety and security of students and school environments in Abia State.