Shopping centres are prepared for emergencies
THE attack on Kenya's Westgate mall where at least 67 people were killed, has raised awareness of shopping centre safety.
Centre manager for Gateway, Akash Maharaj assured that Gateway Theatre of Shopping adapts security measures according to changing circumstances and, where necessary, introduces additional measures in consultation with the South African Police Service and specialist advisers.
Key action to be taken in the event of an emergency is clearly defined.
Maharaj said the centre’s security personnel and CCTV surveillance network enjoy 24-hour standby support from the SAPS and other security resources.
“In addition, our retailers who have their own security arrangements within their own premises, operate their own surveillance cameras in their areas. All our security technologies (for example CCTV surveillance and alarm systems) are checked constantly. For busy trading periods, we increase the security complement in specific areas. There is a focus on high visibility at the entrances as well as increased visibility in the parking areas.”
Centre management and the security team liaise regularly with the SAPS to support a significant drive at local law enforcement level to increase visible policing.
“Having the eyes and ears of not only retailer personnel, but also shoppers who alert law enforcers and our security personnel to suspicious behaviour, can only enhance security”,”said Maharaj.
As a precaution required in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, emergency evacuation exercises are carried out twice a year in co-ordination with the SA Police Service, City Disaster Management Services, Emergency, Fire and Traffic units, and security contractors.
Maharaj said these exercises enjoy full co-operation of retailers and their customers and are invaluable in briefing retailers and their staff on emergency procedures involving the deployment, in line with a national policy and agreement with the SAPS and emergency services, of their specialist personnel. The centre also has trained medical personnel on call 24 hours a day to deal with emergencies.
Emergency procedures at La Lucia Mall
La Lucia Mall’s emergency procedures are updated and rehearsed on a regular basis according to centre manager, Vanessa Blevins.
“Furthermore the Mall’s property assets including all emergency equipment are maintained so as to ensure that we are always ready and prepared for any type of emergency situation.
“An ongoing training in emergency and security procedures combined with a vigilant property and asset management team programme, ensures that the La Lucia Mall Management team is always ready and prepared for any emergency,” she said.
“Security is a priority at La Lucia Mall and we endeavour to ensure that patrons of the mall are safe at all times.”
