BETH EL SECURITY UPDATE

The Security Committee continues to take measures to maintain the safety of our community as we engage in prayer, ritual, and learning. We want to make you aware of some of the actions we have taken over the past few months.

First, as you may be aware, we conducted two training sessions on civilian response to active shooter events in conjunction with the New Rochelle Police Department (NRPD) and our security consultants. The course provided strategies, guidance, and a proven plan for surviving an active shooter event. We will be conducting additional sessions in the fall as well as an awareness drill during a Shabbat morning service, which will be announced in advance. We welcome your participation–awareness and best practices are important components of preparation.

We have also installed four alert strobe/sirens in high traffic areas. In the event of an emergency, the system will sound to alert occupants and the NRPD. In addition, we will be installing the Gabriel System, an additional emergency alert system which uses smart technology to instantly and discreetly give first responders eyes and ears on the scene for early intervention and resolution. As a part of this system, there will be two physical Gabriel Shields estimated to be installed in October. The Gabriel program is funded by a national donor for installation at Jewish institutions.

In addition, we retrofitted numerous doors, including all sanctuary and ballroom doors, to allow for locking from the inside–effectively preventing an intruder when a lockdown is considered the safest means of protection. We have also ensured that emergency medical bags are located in the Main Office, Sanctuary bimah closet, Religious School Director’s office and Nursery School Director’s office.

With the High Holidays fast approaching, our committee has made additional preparations which will be communicated in a separate High Holiday announcement.

Please contact Michael Dorfman, chair of the Security Committee, with further questions at michaelalandorfman@gmail.com, or if you would like to get involved in our continuing effort to create a secure but welcoming environment at Beth El.

VO L UNTEER AT BETH EL!

Beth El is looking for volunteers to help lead our efforts to expand Beth El’s involvement in the following areas: social action, chesed, and community building/social programming.