Fortunately, a variety of preventive and coping strategies can help beleaguered teachers and administrators both to protect the school facilities and to safeguard the people who use them. Disciplinary infractions and incidents of crime are documented and coded according to parameters similar to Blauvelt's. Using these techniques, Duval County Public Schools in Florida identified the noon hour as the time of most thefts. Alarm systems can effectively reduce vandalism and burglaries. They suggest that after surveying the equipment available, administrators should consult a qualified engineer with no vested interest before making a decision.
Metal detectors are expensive and controversial.
In a 1988 New York City pilot program, security guards checked for weapons with hand-held metal detectors. Traditional methods can help protect school property and personnel without a large initial investment. Blauvelt gives a number of crime-prevention tips, ranging from inventory procedures to suggesting teachers collect money during the first period if students bring money to school for a special purpose. Supervision is important both in controlling student problems and in preventing intrusions. Schools may assign staff to patrol halls or cafeterias, have parents and community volunteers monitor reception areas, or hire security guards.