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Schools Need Security Drills Beyond Fire Alarms

Why Schools Need Security Drills Beyond Fire Alarms

Fire drills are a long-standing tradition in schools, ensuring students know how to evacuate safely. However, schools need security drills beyond fire alarms to address modern threats effectively. Schools face risks that range from active threats to medical crises and natural disasters. Yet, many remain underprepared for real-world emergencies beyond fires. Safety isn’t just about […]

School Security Services for Safer Learning Environments

School Security Services for Safer Learning Environments

Schools should be places where students learn, grow, and build their futures. However, with safety concerns on the rise, creating safer learning environments requires a proactive approach. Implementing school security services helps prevent issues like unauthorized access, violence, and emergencies before they happen. A strong security plan ensures that students and staff feel protected, allowing […]

Meeting Maryland’s New Coverage Standards for Security Firms

Insurance Insights: Meeting Maryland’s New Coverage Standards for Security Employers

Compliance with Maryland’s new coverage standards for security employers is a legal necessity. Updated regulations require security firms to strengthen their insurance policies, ensuring better protections for employees and clients. Firms that fail to comply risk fines, legal liabilities, and operational setbacks. Security businesses must act now to meet these coverage standards and maintain their […]

How Community Partnerships Improve School Safety Measures

How Community Partnerships Improve School Safety Measures

School safety remains a critical concern for every community. Meeting this responsibility demands a collaborative approach involving schools and local stakeholders, such as law enforcement, businesses, and parents. Strong partnerships foster a secure environment for learning while addressing the growing complexities of safety challenges. Collaboration with local stakeholders demonstrates how community partnerships improve school safety […]

Best Practices for Safe School Drop-Off and Pick-Up in Maryland

Safe school drop-off and pick-up routines are essential to fostering secure environments for students and families. In Maryland, adhering to best practices during these high-traffic periods helps mitigate risks, reduces stress, and ensures a smooth transition between home and school. By implementing effective strategies and maintaining clear communication, parents and schools can work together to prioritize safety. Follow these best practices for safe school drop-off and pick-up in Maryland to create a secure environment while supporting community well-being. Importance of Safe Drop-Off and Pick-Up Establishing structured drop-off and pick-up routines directly improves student safety and creates a more organized traffic flow. It also reduces risks associated with chaotic school zones. Schools and communities experience several benefits from prioritizing safety, including: Lower rates of accidents involving students. Reduced vehicle congestion during peak times. Improved collaboration between schools and families. In addition to physical safety, such efforts help children feel secure, fostering better learning environments. Schools must regularly evaluate their procedures and adjust as needed to keep everyone safe. Maryland Laws and Regulations Maryland has clear traffic rules that aim to safeguard students during school commutes. Parents and drivers must follow specific laws, including: Stopping when school bus stop arms are extended. Adhering to school zone speed limits, typically between 15–20 mph. Avoiding the use of handheld devices while driving in school zones. Violating these laws not only endangers students but can also result in significant fines. Regular reminders about these rules within school newsletters or local community boards can increase awareness and compliance. Clear Communication Between Schools and Parents Open communication between schools and parents lays the foundation for safe routines. Schools can enhance communication by: Implementing app-based alerts for changes in drop-off or pick-up schedules. Sharing safety policies during parent-teacher meetings. Installing directional signs for clarity during busy times. Parents should stay updated by checking newsletters or mobile notifications and addressing any concerns with school administrators promptly. A proactive communication strategy benefits all parties. Creating Safe Drop-Off Zones Drop-off zones play a significant role in maintaining safety and efficiency during high-traffic periods. Schools can design safer zones by: Establishing separate lanes for buses and personal vehicles. Clearly marking areas for students to enter or exit safely. Training staff to guide traffic and assist with coordination. To enhance efficiency, schools should conduct periodic reviews of these areas. Regular updates based on feedback from parents and staff ensure that zones remain effective and accessible. Minimizing Risks During Drop-Off Drivers can unintentionally create unsafe conditions during drop-off periods. Parents must remain vigilant and practice the following safety measures: Keep mobile devices away while navigating school zones. Always drop children off on the curb side of the vehicle. Ensure backpacks and belongings are ready to avoid delays. Children should also understand the importance of exiting the vehicle quickly and safely. By combining these efforts, families can minimize the risk of accidents in these busy areas. Best Practices for School Pick-Up School pick-up routines often present unique challenges due to varied dismissal times and the volume of traffic. Families can streamline the process by: Arriving on time and parking in designated areas. Using staggered pick-up times to avoid congestion. Following the school's carpool policies if available. Parents should encourage children to stay in waiting areas until their ride arrives. These practices simplify dismissal and help maintain order during one of the busiest parts of the school day. Encouraging Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Students who walk or bike to school need additional safeguards. Parents, schools, and communities can work together by implementing these strategies: Teach children to use crosswalks and wait for traffic signals. Provide helmets and reflective gear for biking students. Establish pedestrian safety workshops in collaboration with local law enforcement. Infrastructure improvements, such as adding bike lanes and crosswalks, also contribute to student safety. Partnering with local governments can help secure funding for these upgrades. Role of Crossing Guards Crossing guards are instrumental in maintaining order and ensuring safety in school zones. Their responsibilities include directing traffic and helping children cross streets safely. Communities can support them by: Advocating for well-trained guards at busy intersections. Ensuring guards have reflective gear and visible signs. Reporting unsafe conditions in school zones to local authorities. Crossing guards offer a reassuring presence, helping reduce risks for students traveling to and from school. Educating Students About Road Safety Road safety education empowers students to navigate traffic zones confidently and responsibly. Schools and parents can reinforce safety habits through: Teaching children how to recognize and respond to traffic signs. Encouraging them to stay alert and avoid distractions like phones while walking. Organizing school-led road safety awareness events. When children internalize these lessons, they become proactive participants in maintaining their safety and that of their peers. How Parents Can Set a Good Example Parents have the unique opportunity to model safe behaviors during school commutes. By setting a positive example, they can reinforce good habits in their children. Key practices include: Following all posted traffic signs and speed limits. Demonstrating patience during congested periods. Prioritizing safety over convenience, even if it means waiting longer in line. Children often emulate the behaviors they observe, making parental example a critical part of road safety education

Safe school drop-off and pick-up routines are essential to fostering secure environments for students and families. In Maryland, adhering to best practices during these high-traffic periods helps mitigate risks, reduces stress, and ensures a smooth transition between home and school. By implementing effective strategies and maintaining clear communication, parents and schools can work together to […]

Emergency Drills Prepare Elementary Schools for the Unexpected

Emergency Drills Prepare Elementary Schools for the Unexpected

School safety goes beyond academics; it’s about preparing students to handle anything that comes their way. Emergency drills equip elementary schools with preparedness strategies, helping students and staff respond confidently to the unexpected. By familiarizing young students with clear protocols, schools empower them to handle potentially alarming situations with calmness and composure. Parents and teachers […]

Creating a Safe School Culture Starts With Our Community

Creating a Safe School Culture Starts With Our Community

Creating a safe school culture starts with our community fostering trust, open communication, and active involvement for lasting security. When communities support school safety together, they establish an environment where students thrive, feel secure, and grow into confident individuals. Today’s schools face many challenges in maintaining student safety—from physical threats to mental health concerns—and they […]

Why Schools Need Specialized Security to Protect Students

Why Schools Need Specialized Security to Protect Students

Schools today face a wide range of security threats that demand specialized solutions tailored to protect students, teachers, and staff. With incidents like active shooters, cyber threats, and external dangers on the rise, relying on generic security systems is no longer a sufficient approach. Schools need specialized security services designed to meet the unique challenges […]

Creating a Safe Learning Environment in Schools

Creating a Safe Learning Environment in Schools

Creating a safe learning environment in schools is essential as institutions face growing security challenges. Prioritizing safety involves a combination of physical security, emergency preparedness, and fostering a positive climate that supports both students and staff. With these elements in place, schools can focus on their primary mission: providing a distraction-free learning experience. A balanced […]

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Defender One is a distinguished provider of comprehensive security solutions throughout the State of Maryland.

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Chad Emrick

Scheduling Administrator

As Scheduling Administrator, Chad leverages twenty years of administrative and management experience to enhance Defender One’s operational excellence. For Chad, the scheduling process is like putting together a puzzle—finding just the right pieces to fill every slot. His strategic mindset and knack for process optimization have consistently elevated his organizational efficiency. The security industry is 24/7. Thus, Chad’s methodical preparation and adaptable management style keeps our operations running smoothly.

When not orchestrating schedules at Defender One, Chad dedicates himself to his treasured role— a devoted family man. He and his wife Wanda have raised four remarkable children. Most recently, adding a new dimension to his life’s joy is his grandson, Leo.

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Phil Kline

Regional Manager – Baltimore Metro Region

Phil’s career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Military Police Officer. His training as an Internal Response Unit member equipped him with essential skills in safety, security, and crisis management. One of his most fulfilling experiences was responding to Hurricane Sandy, where he played a vital role in assisting those affected by the disaster.

Following his military service, Phil transitioned to the building supply industry, where he spent a decade as an Operations and Sales Manager. During this time, he honed his leadership, process improvement, and industry analysis skills. His passion for identifying opportunities and driving positive change has been a constant throughout his career.

With a strong foundation in problem-solving and a resilient mindset, Phil is dedicated to applying his expertise to create impactful solutions. Whether leading teams, optimizing processes, or tackling complex challenges, he approaches every task with integrity and a focus on results.

Outside of work, Phil is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and camping. One of his most memorable adventures was conquering the challenging hike to the top of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.

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Cynthia Cox

Human Resources Manager

With 21 years of management experience across various industries, including staffing, transportation, small business ownership, accounting, and operations, Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust skill set to Defender One. Her diversified background has equipped her with a keen understanding of multiple business domains, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

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Jennifer Krieger

Chief Administrative Officer

Jen currently serves as Defender One’s Chief Administrative Officer, managing the HR and back-end finance teams.
 

Jen has 30 years of experience in healthcare benefits administration, retirement benefits, financial planning and human resources. Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master’s Degree in Finance from Loyola University. Jen prioritizes an employee focused and driven company, with an emphasis on client and employee satisfaction. Outside of work, Jen enjoys running, watching her daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse, and playing with her grand-dogs.

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Jon Krieger

Owner

Jon is the President and Founder of Defender One. Jon started Defender One in 2009, with the goal of bridging the gap between conventional security guards and law enforcement. Jon had a long and distinguished career in a large metropolitan police department for over 30 years, holding supervisory positions in several units, including patrol, internal affairs, traffic and community outreach. Jon has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park. Outside of work, Jon spends his time spoiling his dog Abe and grand-dogs Fred and Barney, supporting the Ravens and Orioles, and watching his daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse.

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