On security matters our Newdesk had a conversation with a Security Consultant. Dr Peter Mwangi the CEO Guardnow security Group, a provider of security services to malls that. Guardnow runs on the mantra of serving and protecting.To Guardnow service and protecting people comes first,which is evident from the several years of experience in private security industry. A professional security company that’s licensed to offer security services in Kenya.
Dr Mwangi shared lessons from the 2013 westgate attack highlighting lessons learned through his highly trained teams that service the Malls that work with Guardnow security Group.
During this long school holiday it’s obvious families will be flocking to the Malls for lunches or just to stroll on lazy days.
Dr Mwangi said he’s particularly concerned by the public influx to malls on Sundays and public holidays. People need to learn how to look over their shoulders and watch their backs. The Westgate attack is a lifetime tragedy to learn from. Guardnow security group CEO highlighted a few lessons about the Westgate Mall attack in 2013.The CEO Guardnow security Group highlighted several critical lessons for mall security from terrorist attacks, to petty thieves and con people, he shared 7 tips on mall safety for Kenyans.
The CEO Guardnow who is trained on terrorism and counter terrorism practices and safety measures on emergencies had a few tips to share on Mall safety.
Access Control: Implement stricter entry protocols, including screening and identification checks, to limit unauthorized access.
Emergency Response Plans: Develop and regularly update comprehensive emergency response plans. Conduct drills to ensure staff and security personnel are prepared for various scenarios.
Training and Coordination: Provide extensive training for security staff and ensure effective communication and coordination with local law enforcement near Malls.
Surveillance and Monitoring: Enhance surveillance systems with advanced technology, such as real-time monitoring and analytics, to detect suspicious behavior quickly.
Public Awareness: Educate shoppers on recognizing and reporting suspicious activity to create a vigilant community.
Rapid Incident Response: Establish clear protocols for rapid response to incidents, including designated safe zones and clear evacuation routes.
Community Engagement: Foster relationships with local authorities and emergency services for collaborative response and preparedness.
Dr Mwangi advised parents to always accompany their children during their games in Malls and to the washrooms. Parents should be vigilant to avoid losing their children or suspicious people introducing themselves to their children.
If one is accompanied by their helper,the helper needs to be trained on gazing and forgetting children. Parents also need to allow them to enjoy the city experience without expecting they can be vigilant on taking care of children,in malls Parents need to offer a third eye without assuming the helper is caring for children.
With aged parents always walk along them to avoid the masses hitting them as they walk swiftly.
In large malls, always agree in case of an emergency where to converge and who to call.
In case of an emergency your safety comes first do not stop for any personal belongings advices Dr Mwangi.
Children also need to be taught how to call for help and know offhead their parents contacts incase they miss out on each other..some Malls are so huge its important even to identify where one has parked their cars,the route to exit.
Implementing these lessons can significantly improve the security posture of malls and similar public spaces.
He advices its important for everyone to be responsible of their own security and not to be careless about safety.
Article by
Dr Peter Mwangi
CEO Guardnow security Group