By Zalman Myer-Smith
Final preparations for another school year are underway, while Shuls also begin preparation for Tishrei, a spiritually intense month that also presents unique security challenges.
For Rabbinical leadership, school administrators, law enforcement and security directors this is a critical time for threat analysis, planning and having systems in place for a variety of security emergency scenarios.
Despite the tragic attacks on October 7th, increased antisemitism culminating in verbal and physical assaults, not every shul and school has consistent security protocols to help deter, defend and thwart an antisemitic or terror attack which could occur in a variety of ways. Without discussing operational security methods in detail, let’s examine some basic security measures that synagogues and schools can take to improve their security:
● Check Mezuzas: While be either obvious or get overlooked, checking mezuzas serves as a reminder that the responsibility for safety and security is a shared effort and we partner with Hashem in all that we do.
● Build Relationships with Law Enforcement: Establish a point person to liaise with law enforcement. Meet with them to discuss security plans, tour the site, and strengthen professional relationships. Offering refreshments during operating hours can be a way to express gratitude for their service.
● Hire Security Personnel: When hiring off-duty police or private security officers. Ensure they have insurance, are alert, and receive clear instructions about their roles and responsibilities during services and school hours.
● Utilize Greeters and Screeners: Greeters and screeners can welcome visitors and deter potential attackers. Security volunteers can serve as ambassadors for the site, creating a welcoming atmosphere while also being vigilant. A great start is to get free training from the Community Security Service who operate in multiple states.
● Conduct Scenario Drills: Run through drills and response scenarios to ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in case of an emergency.
● Maintain Essential Supplies: Keep a trauma kit, AED, Stop the Bleed kit, and fire suppression devices on site. Identify individuals who are trained, certified, and experienced in emergency medical assistance.
● Get a Security Assessment: A professional security assessment can help identify strengths, weaknesses, and the best responses to security and medical emergencies.
● Designate a Point Person for Reporting: Clearly identify a staff member, security personnel, or law enforcement officer to whom suspicious behavior or items should be reported. Train everyone to be observant and report anything out of the ordinary.
● Check Security Systems: Ensure that camera systems, outdoor lighting, and fire and security alarms are in good working order.
● Have a Communication System: A megaphone or PA system can be used to alert the site of a security emergency and activate emergency responses.
● Secure Doors and Consider Lockdown Devices: Check door locks and consider installing low-cost lockdown devices to slow down or isolate an attacker.
● Conduct External Patrols: Visible patrols outside the building can deter potential attackers and help identify threats or concerns before a potential attack.. ● Use Vehicles as Barriers: Strategically park vehicles to act as barriers against accidental or intentional ramming.
● Ensure Ability to Contact Emergency Services: Make sure there is always a way to call 911/Hatzalah for medical or security emergencies, even during Yom Tov days and Shabbat.
● Acknowledge and Thank law enforcement, volunteers and security personnel: Publicly recognizing and thanking volunteers, security personnel, and law enforcement officers can boost morale and show appreciation for their efforts. A thank you goes a long way.
Other considerations:
● Charge a school or /shul security fee for parents/shul members to offset the costs of off duty law enforcement or contracted security personnel.
● Apply for a non profit homeland security or State security grant (availability depends on your state) to help cover the costs of contracted security officers and physical security improvements (cameras/doors/fences/alarms and more items). Visit www.unitedcommunitygrants.com for more details.
Zalman Myer-Smith is the Director Of Chabad Security Department – Florida and focuses on liaising, training, and working with law enforcement agencies and serving hundreds of Jewish community synagogues, schools, and centers. He can be reached at z@chabadsecurityfl.org
