As summer winds down and staff trickles back into school buildings, there’s a critical window of time that often slips by unnoticed — yet it can make or break your first day of school security readiness.
Too often, essential security systems go untested until students are already back in the building. Intercoms at front entrances, cameras overlooking key access points, panic buttons, and lockdown systems — all vital layers of protection — sit idle for weeks, only to reveal problems when it’s too late to fix them quickly.
One of our senior security consultants, Jen Smead, put it best:
“Staff usually returns before students, but they don’t test the intercom until the first day. Ideally, they’d test it as soon as they’re back, so we have time to respond if anything’s not working.”
At American Digital Security, we recommend districts treat those early return days as a security preseason — a chance to verify all systems are online, functional, and ready to go. Not just for peace of mind, but for the safety of every student and staff member.
Here’s what to test before students return:
Intercoms & Access Control Systems
Test that front-door intercoms are loud and clear, and that access control (via Avigilon Unity Access or Alta Access) allows staff to easily buzz in visitors and quickly activate a lockdown if needed. These feeders are vital for limiting access to authorized personnel only.
Surveillance Cameras & Recording Functionality
Verify all surveillance cameras are capturing clear footage from key entryways, hallways, and common areas, and ensure recordings are being stored properly. Advanced analytics — like Avigilon’s new “rich event” detection — help flag events faster.
Panic & Lockdown Systems
Check that panic button apps (such as the Rave Panic Button) and physical solutions (SentryERS) are working. A single press should instantly alert staff, launch lockdown protocols, and notify emergency responders.
Two-Way Radios & Emergency Comms
Ensure your two-way radios, such as your MOTOTRBO or TLK series radios, are charged, assigned, and connecting across campus and even on buses. These systems are more reliable than cell phones during critical situations.
HALO Smart Sensors (Vape & Threat Detection)
Make sure sensors are live in high-risk areas (bathrooms, locker rooms, hallways) and sending alerts for vaping, gunshots, aggression, and keywords like “help” — enhancing awareness without video surveillance.
Alert & First Responder Integrations
Confirm that local first responder communications are functional via Rave Collaborate, Critical Connect, or CommandCentral — seamlessly linking your systems to emergency teams.
Need support before school starts? Our team is already helping dozens of districts across the Midwest prepare with system checks, proactive tech upgrades, and overall security system support.
Let’s make the first day safe — and stress-free.
Contact ADS today to schedule your system check before the first day!