Courthouses face unique safety and security challenges due to their high-profile nature and the sensitive proceedings that take place within them. A critical component of courthouse planning is prioritizing the safety of all occupants—judges, staff, jurors, litigants, and the public.
I was recently part of a team conducting planning sessions at a Virginia courthouse. During our meetings in a 7th-floor conference room, an emergency alert system was activated, notifying all building occupants to evacuate immediately. No reason was provided, just the harsh sound of the alert and bright emergency strobe lights.
As our team entered the staircase, it became clear that a woman ahead of us had physical limitations and was struggling to make it down the stairs, causing the line to back up behind her. Not knowing what the threat was, I must admit it was a bit unnerving that we were not able to exit quickly.
Although the alert turned out to be a false alarm, it did cause me to think about the wide array of threats that courthouses face. From natural disasters to security threats, courthouses must be designed to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.
Key Emergency Response Features
Incorporating robust emergency response features into courthouse design not only ensures the protection of those within but also builds public trust by demonstrating a commitment to safety and preparedness. Let’s take a look at some key strategies for integrating emergency response features into courthouse planning to create a safe and secure courthouse environment.
Comprehensive Emergency Evacuation Plans
Courthouses should feature clear, well-marked emergency exits, with multiple evacuation routes to accommodate large crowds. Floor plans should include accessible paths for individuals with disabilities, ensuring everyone can evacuate safely during an emergency. Evacuation plans should be posted throughout the building.
Reunification points where courthouse occupants can safely gather should be established for building occupants who have been evacuated during a crisis such as a fire, natural disaster, or security threat. The purpose of the reunification point is to ensure that everyone can be located and verified as safe, especially in large courthouses with many occupants. It also provides a structured environment for emergency responders to coordinate efforts.
Safe Zones
Designated safe zones or lockdown areas should be provided in courthouses, where personnel and visitors can shelter in the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster or security threat. These zones are typically located in structurally secure parts of the building, away from windows, doors, and other hazards. They can be fortified with bullet-resistant materials and should be accessible to all building occupants. The safe zones should be well equipped with first aid kits, water, and snacks.
Enhanced Security Infrastructure
Courthouses must integrate advanced security measures, duress alarms, metal detectors, and secure screening areas, to prevent threats before they escalate. Electronic security systems also play a critical role in guiding emergency response teams during a crisis. First responders can view camera feeds to determine where to focus their efforts.
Automatic Lockdown Capabilities
Automatic lockdown capabilities in courthouses allow security systems to instantly secure external doors, block access points, and restrict movement when a threat is detected, preventing unauthorized access. This helps protect staff, judges, and visitors by creating a controlled environment during emergencies such as active shooter situations or other security breaches.
Emergency Communication System
Emergency communication systems are designed to quickly alert staff, law enforcement, and the public of imminent threats or emergencies in the courthouse or the surrounding area. Emergency communication systems typically include alarms, public address systems, and mass notification tools to provide real-time information and instructions for evacuation or lockdown procedures.
Collaboration with Local Emergency Services
Planning courthouses with direct access and coordination capabilities for first responders—such as dedicated entry points for emergency vehicles or pre-established communication systems—ensures quick and effective responses in case of an incident.
It is also important to provide first responders with courthouse floor plans to expedite an emergency response. The courthouse should provide a Knox Box or Lockbox—an exterior key storage system installed on the building exterior—that allows emergency responders to access the building's keys in case of an emergency, ensuring quick entry without causing damage.
Fire and Hazard Prevention Features
Modern courthouse designs should incorporate fire-resistant materials, sprinkler systems, smoke evacuation systems, and clear signage to protect occupants from fire hazards. Proper planning for natural disasters like earthquakes or floods is also crucial for maintaining structural integrity and occupant safety.
Final Thoughts
Planning for safety and security in courthouses is essential to ensuring the protection of everyone within the building during an emergency. By incorporating a wide range of emergency response features, potential threats can be mitigated and an expedited response can be achieved. A well-designed safety plan not only enhances the security of the courthouse and the safety of its occupants but also fosters confidence in its ability to handle unexpected situations, safeguarding both the people who work in and rely on the justice system.
