A short note on landscaping

Landscaping can be an indispensable tool for security, not to mention how much better it can make any building look. For security it can provide some very real benefits, and I'm not talking about those "tips" for home protection like placing thorny bushes around windows (which works or doesn't depending on who you consult).

So here are a few basics for incorporating security functions into your landscaping.

The most important bit has to do with Natural Surveillance, or making sure that everyone is able to see the goings on in a given area. To do this keep shrubs relatively low, particularly closer to the building, to reduce potential areas of concealment. Then keep trees high, or "canopy" them, with the lowest branches somewhere above five feet (six is event better). There reason for adjusting the trees is to highlight the silhouette of a person standing near it. The head is one of the most identifiable features on a human silhouette. This coupled with improved lighting makes it much harder for someone to conceal themselves around a building.

From there is becomes possible to use landscaping for "wayfinding" or assisting persons to remain on the proper path. Shrubs and trees can help guide people without the use of fencing, bollards or chains. It looks nicer, costs less over time, and can be just as effective. For instance, if folks like to "cut across" the lawn on their way to a nearby attraction then a row of shrubs can help deter this behavior. Again the shrubs can be kept relatively low and the height can be compensated with depth. While it might be easy to just over an 18" high row of shrubs, it is much more difficult to do the same for a row that is, say, four or five feet deep. Different types of shrubs can add color and texture for visual appeal while making it uncomfortable to force passage. Some shrubs are particularly adept had creating a sort of "tanglefoot" entrapment that is difficult (or even treacherous) and uncomfortable to pass through. Here again, lighting can help enhance the shrubbery by lighting the path around the plants to further assist in guiding individuals.

There. A couple of quick thoughts on the uses of landscaping in security.

Managing vandalism - Part II: an alternate approach

Although it may be well past the original event discussed in this series of postings, vandalism to Houses of Worship continues unabated throughout the world. This article is a bit more recent but similar acts occur nearly every day (or night depending on how you look at it).

I have received much feedback from some very vocal peers with a different view on how to respond to such vandalism. Their approach is certainly valid and is, and has been, used many times in many communities - successfully. So here is an alternate response:

As discussed in the previous post you must do a little leg work in advance, but if you don't you will simply have to do it on the fly afterwards. Get a feel for how long it may take to discover vandalism. Keep in mind that I am speaking of prominent vandalism not so much something small in an out of the way place. I mean the sensational stuff that the passing public will see. Will you be aware of it in an hour, a day, or longer?

Then discuss with your local law enforcement what steps they will take once the event is reported. Build your actions around their response. It's just easier that way. Given that your organization is probably a little more agile than the local government (but not always).

The real divergence in this alternate approach is when the vandalism is removed. In this scenario, rather than hiding the damage, covering it up, cleaning in expeditiously, it is used for public relations and awareness.

Organize a press conference with the local media. Include whichever partners may be most appropriate: the local police chief, prosecutor, mayor, or council members. The press conference becomes a time to speak out say that you are not afraid or ashamed. And to discuss how long the vandalism will remain as a symbol of defiance. Follow-up coverage should be arranged with local media to keep this thought fresh in the public mind and additional awareness activities may be planned as well.

Regardless of which approach might be used, or any method for that matter, it is without a doubt important to plan your actions. Even if this planning is done for just a few minutes after an event. Take the time to think through your actions. What is it you wish to accomplish and why. Then act accordingly with those goals. A few minutes of preparation can prevent embarrassment, annoyance, and further hurt from the event.

Good luck.