Each layer of added protection plays a role in making a residence security program comprehensive.
In part 1 of this two-part series, we covered creating a culture that prioritizes security, the importance of access control as well as other strategies, and the advantages of a sophisticated security system. Let us continue with the other critical factors that go into building a successful comprehensive security program.
Designing entry-resistant spaces
Smart homeowners will ask: Once I confirm that someone is actually approaching my residence, what should I do?
The proven best practice is to establish an entry-resistant space (or spaces) within the home, where residents can remain safe while on-site security personnel manage the matter, or while waiting for a response from law enforcement.
While there are many elaborate options available, a simple and effective entry-resistant space can be created in a typical walk-in closet. In addition to entry-resistance, the space should be equipped with reliable backup communications, monitors connected to viewing cameras, and possibly other options as well if advised by the security professionals.
The importance of having professional security personnel on site
There are many benefits of having on-site security personnel, generally falling into two categories:
The first is that the presence of these personnel is a form of insurance against a category of risk we call “low-likelihood, high consequence.” These are things that do not happen often, but when they do, the stakes are very high.
These risks include home intrusion, medical emergencies, house fires and natural disasters. Professionally trained and applied security personnel will virtually eliminate, or profoundly mitigate, harm in these circumstances.
The second category is that these personnel can provide the daily benefit of managing and documenting access control, training household staff, maintaining technical security systems, and providing effective deterrence.
When done right, on-site security personnel provide tremendous benefit and virtually no downside. At Crisis24, we have developed creative and effective solutions to every common objection, such as space, privacy and perception.
Taking cyber security and online privacy into account
It’s a well-established best practice to address cyber risks and network security at home, particularly given the current prevalence of smart devices and work-from-home culture. Every residence program must take these factors into account to be considered comprehensive.
Furthermore, there was a time when security and privacy were typically viewed as separate matters, with privacy risks being primarily financial or reputational in nature. That is no longer true, and no longer an effective way of thinking.
Privacy and safety are forever inextricably linked
There are many case studies in which online privacy breaches have resulted in safety risks. For example, many pursuers have discovered private home addresses online and visited inappropriately, or learned precisely where to seek an encounter in public based on social media posts.
Jeff Marquart, Senior Director of Executive Protection for Crisis24, recounts: “I’ve had clients say, ‘If someone really wants to learn where I live, they’ll learn right?’ Maybe yes, or maybe no. But if we make it difficult, they might become frustrated and transfer their focus elsewhere.”
Perhaps more importantly, when information is easily discoverable online, there is no opportunity to detect the pursuit.
Alternatively, when we make it more difficult to discover private information online, pursuers often engage in more intrusive surveillance or research—for example, pretext phone calls to an employee, probing for information on blogs, or visiting a business location.
Implementing a protective intelligence program
At Crisis24, we often suggest implementing a protective intelligence program. A primary goal of such a program is to detect this precise type of research or pursuit. And history clearly shows that early detection of inappropriate pursuits provides the best opportunities to effectively intervene or mitigate risk.
Proper governance should not be overlooked
Proper governance and program administration are critical components of a comprehensive home security program, again similar to running a business.
The broad topic of governance for a residence security program includes: thorough background checks and confidentiality agreements for staff and vendors; asset documentation and coordination with insurance providers; maintaining access control and video records; as well as staff and family training.
Further, like managing one’s physical health, it’s not something you do once and forget it. Program governance requires ongoing commitment and evolution, which is why it’s vital to rely on the advice and services of a security company you can trust.
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While we have just scratched the surface in this two-part series of what makes up a successful residence security program, we hope it’s clear to you that there are many benefits to addressing family security thoughtfully, comprehensively, and proactively.
At Crisis24, we provide expert consultation to prominent individuals about comprehensive residence security programs. Specifically, our goal is to deliver actionable guidance and support to improve each client’s unique circumstance, whether the program is new or well established.
To learn more about Crisis24 or to speak with an expert, email us: [email protected]
