The Electronic Security Association (ESA), Irving, Texas, recently completed the ESA Electronic Security Guidelines for Schools, a resource for school officials that are considering adding electronic security systems to a new or existing school security program. The Guidelines, published on June 18 and presented at the 2013 Electronic Security Expo, are now available for free public download on www.ESAweb.org.

The Guidelines provide an in-depth look at the various components that lead to an effective school security program. It is intended to give school officials an understanding of the steps necessary for creating a security solution including overall security planning, assessment of threats, procurement types, contractor selection, how systems affect schools, equipment types, and system use. The Guidelines also illustrate the importance of community involvement and communication between schools and local responders.

The Guidelines are the consensus of a voluntary panel of security industry experts that collectively have extensive and diverse experience in securing K-12 schools. The panel was led by David Koenig; an industry advisor, treasurer of ESA and partner of Capital Fire and Security in Madison, Wis.

 For information, visit www.ESAweb.org and www.ESXweb.com.