Condominium living offers a sense of community and security, but as with any community, incidents of violence can occur. As a manager, board member or staff member, it’s essential to be proactive in ensuring the safety of residents and coworkers. The following are steps that condominium communities can take to minimize the risk of violence and be prepared to respond in the event of an emergency.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation
Identifying and assessing the risks is critical in preparing for potential violence. This includes understanding potential threat factors, such as former residents with a history of violence or disgruntled employees. It also means identifying potential vulnerabilities, such as the lack of security cameras, inadequate lighting, or easily accessible common areas. Once the risks have been identified, it’s time to take action to mitigate them. This can involve installing security cameras where needed, increasing lighting, and implementing security protocols for communal areas.

Education & Emergency Response Planning
Education is critical when it comes to preparing for and responding to an emergency. Staff and residents should receive training on emergency procedures, such as evacuation routes, shelter-in-place protocols, and emergency contact information. Emergency contact information should be readily available, and residents should know how to reach the appropriate authorities in case of an emergency. Regular drills are critical to ensure everyone knows what to do and is prepared to respond quickly and effectively. Additionally, having a designated emergency response team in place and a clear communication plan to keep everyone informed during an emergency is essential.

Support for Those Impacted
An incident of violence can have a lasting impact on those involved. It’s essential to have a plan in place to support residents and staff who may have been affected. This can include counselling services and information and resources to assist in coping with the trauma of the event. Providing support to those impacted is not only the right thing to do, but it also helps foster a sense of community and rebuild trust after a traumatic event.

Conclusion
Safety in a condominium community is a shared responsibility. By identifying and mitigating risks, providing education and training, having a response plan in place, and supporting those impacted, you can help to create a safer and more secure community for all. Remember, taking proactive measures now can help prevent incidents of violence and ensure everyone feels safe and secure in their homes. 

Reuben Smith is an accomplished security professional with a wealth of experience, having served in various roles for over three decades. He joined Paragon in 2008 and has played a critical role in the company’s growth and customer retention in the residential division. He has completed numerous business and industry-related certifications, including a mini-MBA.
paragonsecurity.ca

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