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High-Rise Security and Privacy Concerns: Best Practices for Safety

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Posted by Duane McPherson, CMCA, PCAM® on Aug 28, 2019 8:09:00 AM

Living on an upper floor in a high-rise building presents different challenges for security and privacy than a single-family home. There are several reasons why proactive security and privacy measures are smart for association members. While it is impossible to keep everyone safe from harm at all times, there are ways condo association board members can safeguard against disaster. 

high rise green trees

Controlled Access

A large high-rise building is a home to hundreds of people, some of who may have friends or family visiting. With so many people coming and going, it is difficult to know who belongs on the property and who does not.

Controlling access is easier than one might think. Several newer high-rise condominiums issue key fobs that only operate private elevators. Parking garages require security access stickers. 

When it comes to privacy, some high-rise buildings now have a pool on an upper level. This places the pool, and those using it, out of out-of-sight from the general public. This also deters anyone not authorized from using the pool.

Disaster Training

Association members may think they know what to do in the case of a natural disaster—but will they remember when one occurs? Fire safety training is especially important as residents must take the stairs and not the elevators. Due to panic and urgency, many residents may forget this important detail for exiting the building.

Providing regular disaster training for your association members is a great way to remind them that "this could happen, and when it does, here's what you do." Include a safety checklist for them to place in a prominent place. Disaster training is preparation training for when the unexpected happens, whether it is a natural disaster or a terrorist attack. 

Invest in Security

Poor security cameras are of no help when someone commits a crime. Investing in professional security systems and hiring security guards is something you can't afford to not do. Security guards perform services that technology can't such as keeping residents calm during an emergency. A security guard is also a reassuring sign that the association board and management take resident safety seriously. Their simple presence allows for peace of mind for everyone. 

Investing in quality security equipment and in security guards sends a message to criminals that the building is off limits. If someone does try to gain access to the property, a security guard can act quickly to remove them from the property or call law enforcement. 

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About Grand Manors

Living in a high-rise condominium is a unique experience. There's no chance of someone peeking into your living room window or of a stranger knowing on your door. There is a certain level of protection within the building itself. 

Ensuring that associations are doing all they can to keep members safe is a part of what we do. At Grand Manors, we take great pride in our experience when it comes to association management. We actively foster community relationships and it is our goal to keep residents safe by implementing the best safety and privacy practices possible. 

We understand that residents often become complacent when it comes to issues of safety and privacy. In today's ever-changing world, however, it is important to remain vigilant. Controlling building access, offering yearly disaster training, and investing in better security technology and in guards is a great start. 

For more information about our services, contact us. Our team is ready to help your high-rise association achieve a safe and thriving community for everyone to enjoy and one that attracts others.

Becoming complacent or taking a reactive rather than a proactive approach is dangerous. Protect your members by learning more about Grand Manors today. 

Duane McPherson, CMCA, PCAM®

Duane McPherson, CMCA, PCAM®

Over 30 years experience in property and community association management Professional Community Association Manager through the Community Association Institute (CAI) Former GM/CEO of a large-scale association: mixed-use commercial, residential and recreational Contributor to HOALeader.com National industry experience