NCJ Number
203626
Journal
Campus Law Enforcement Journal Volume: 33 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2003 Pages: 15-17
Date Published
September 2003
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article profiles the threat of terrorist attacks on college campuses and provides a general outline for a security strategy.
Abstract
Because of their public visibility and accessibility, along with many research activities, college campuses are high-risk targets for both foreign and domestic terrorists (extremist animal rights and environmental groups). Given that the terrorist threat is persistent and long-term, college campuses must adopt security measures commensurate with the level and characteristics of likely terrorist threats. Up-to-date technology must be incorporated in access control to buildings based on threat assessments, and technology must also be instrumental in the prompt detection and notification of breaches in security. Identification tools should be used to restrict access to areas deemed to be at high risk for a terrorist attack. Thought must be given to the design, placement, and construction of new or renovated facilities in accordance with the risk level for the activities inside the building. Increased attention must be given to security for the various types of public events that occur on campus. This may require assistance from departments and agencies outside the university based on mutual aid agreements. Finally, emergency disaster plans must not only be continually updated but must also be tested through practice exercises. 2 notes