Increased security measures implemented to ensure employee, patient safety

In today’s day and age, you have to be more mindful of your surroundings than ever before, especially during the holidays when criminal activity tends to peak.

Texas Children’s works hard to make sure the organization is a safe place for our employees, patients and patient families year round. Creating such an environment, however, is a fluid process that requires vigilance, flexibility and cooperation from everyone involved.

That’s why employees will soon begin to see various additional security enhancements put into place throughout the organization. One such enhancement will occur on January 4 when elevators in the Meyer building will be accessible by badge only. These restrictions will be in place 24 hours a day and will require visitors to check in at the security desk. Notices of the upcoming change have been placed near the entrance of the Meyer building and by the elevators.

Manager of Security Operations Christopher Carr said employees should not share badges or let others tailgate into secure areas. In general, he said people should be aware of their surroundings and report anything unusual or suspect.

Here are some things you can do to protect yourself from potentially dangerous situations this holiday season and beyond:

• Walk with your head up, make eye contact with others, have confidence and move at a steady pace.
• Stay in well-lit, heavily traveled areas. Avoid alleys, dark parking lots or secluded areas.
• If you wear headphones while walking, keep the volume low so you can hear other noises.
• Avoid texting and walking as your attention is not on where you are going or who is coming toward you.
• Don’t walk alone at night. Walk in groups as there is always safety in numbers.
• If you are going to a particular destination, let someone know you are on your way and approximately what time you will arrive.
• If you are carrying a wallet, keep it in your purse or bag and carry it close to your body. Do not leave personal items unattended at any time.
• Vary your route. Take a different path so you don’t become predictable.