4 Lockdown System Features Ideal For Protecting Businesses

If you own a large business or institution like a school, daycare, bank, or retail store, then the sad reality is that you need to prepare for possible dangerous situations. Active shooters, intruders, and natural disasters are just a few of the situations you need to prepare for at your business. One way to offer extra security is with a lockdown system.

A lockdown system provides you with instant access to security features and will help you follow a specific lockdown plan to ensure your business and the people inside stay protected. Learn about some key features of a lockdown system and how the system will benefit your business.

1. One-Button App Activation

Time is essential during a lockdown. The quicker you can secure areas of your building, the more success you will find during a lockdown situation. Many lockdown systems come with a single-button activation. One-button access is available through a variety of methods. An app offers the easiest form of access to activate a lockdown from any point of the building.

The app is integrated into the security system and the access control locks built into doors. If you have a security station or lobby area, a security company can also install a physical lockdown button. Once pressed, the button would go through the same procedures to lock public entrances and alert others.

Along with the locks, an alarm may sound through the building with built-in audio messages. The one-button process works both ways. Turn off the lockdown with a quick tap to reverse the lockdown and proceed with normal security.

The one-button security feature can also contact local authorities right away. A distress code is sent and the authorities will be dispatched to your business to answer the call. Some apps may feature the option to choose what services you need, including police, fire, and ambulance.

2. Lockdown Levels

A lockdown doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing situation. Your building may have different lockdown levels. For example, there's a big difference between a threat in the local area and a threat on your business property. As you set up a lockdown security system, choose from different levels of security to address different levels of urgency.

For example, a nearby threat may only mean that you lock down the main entrances to a building. People can exit a building, but no one can enter without direct admission or security presence. Instead of open doors, employees and other visitors may need access cards to gain door entry.

Not every lockdown will need alarms or messages. Some will only be precautionary measures unless something more drastic takes place, and the last thing you want to do is invoke panic when a lockdown occurs. Once the security levels are established, you should host training sessions to go over the specific procedures, so everyone who works there knows what to expect and what procedures to follow.

3. Security Camera Feed Access

When a lockdown does occur, you will want to monitor the situation. Access to security feeds will give you a clear view of both interior and exterior views of your business. The security feed access is often built right into a lockdown app and will instantly load video content.

Some lockdown security systems allow you to easily share video clips and information with the authorities so they can have visuals of potential problems. The visuals will help with any strategies if law enforcement is needed for the location.

Security cameras can also feature DVR controls. Rewind video to check out previous footage and gather intel or information on potential threats. If security systems have microphones built in, then you also have the option to listen to live audio feeds.

4. Intercom & Communication Access

Reaching out to others during a lockdown is essential. Communicate with employees, indicate when a lockdown occurs, and give specific instructions to everyone involved. A lockdown system also includes intercom access. With an intercom, you don't have to worry about making phone calls or finding other ways to interact.

One-touch operations can give you full access to the whole intercom or just to specific areas like certain rooms. Some intercoms will include talk-back features so you can hear responses, but the main goal is to relay messages and information.

An exterior intercom system can also provide information to anyone on the exterior of the business. Speakers are wired and strategically set in place. Some security systems also come with a battery backup system. If a natural disaster creates power outages, a battery backup will still help you get messages across and provide extra forms of communication.

Get started on a lockdown system installation for your business with our services at Dixie Safe & Lock. We can integrate a system that fits your needs and has the proper security features to make you feel protected and secure.