UW-Madison University Housing has taken another step in ensuring safety for dorm residents, with the installation of new security measures in the southeast dorms of Ogg, Sellery and Witte, designed to both deter and prevent crime.
The measures consist of a new electronic locking system, in which all doors of the building are on a time-lock schedule, automatically locking at the same time every night.??In addition, recently installed sensors will alert a central office to any doors opened for an extended period, limiting entry of non-residents.
\We wouldn't really know [about doors held open] unless we went around and checked all the doors,"" University Housing Director Paul Evans said.??""This system tells us right away.""
Security cameras have also been installed on the first floors of the dorms, providing an accurate recording of any activity.??These cameras are designed to serve two purposes: to deter criminal acts in the dorms with the threat of being watched, and if that fails to record evidence of any criminal acts that take place, according to Evans.
The chief benefit of the new system is the unification of the existing systems, cutting back the need for individual efforts.??With all systems being controlled in a central location, there is no need for staff members to go around and lock each individual door, or seal the doors separately in an emergency, Evans said.
""A good security aspect is that with the click of a button, you can lock all the doors,"" said Lt. Pete Ystenes of University Police.
All measures are being taken to accommodate students, with information on the new systems provided with signs mounted on the doors and reminders sent to all residents.
""I haven't really noticed anything different,"" said Patrick Waring, a UW-Madison freshman and Witte resident. ""The only thing I've noticed are those signs they've put up.""
Evans agreed with the ease of the system to students. ""They are not bothered by this at all, and take it as a positive method.""
Future plans involve the spread of this new technology to the other dorms, with Elizabeth Waters Hall the next likely recipient of the system.??Additional education is a priority as well, with the possible introduction of outside speakers from University Police to talk about the system and its necessity.
""Any new security things will have to deal with education as well,"" Evans said.??
