Once the environmental threat has been determined, the basic principles of security can be considered.

These are often known as the 'three Ds' - Deterrence, Delay and Denial:

Deter the would-be intruder by presenting a difficult and discouraging site

Delay the intruder by making entry as difficult as possible

Deny the intruder either any advantage or access to the key parts of the building once entry has been gained.

The survey will review all the various security features - including both positive and negative aspects - and then produce a list of considered recommendations to overcome any deficiencies detected. The survey will normally be the starting point for any security improvements and may also provide the basis for contracts with suppliers of systems or services.

In producing the survey, the consultant will examine the premises as a series of protective “layers” as laid out below:

Perimeter Protection

All buildings or premises have a perimeter; this may be a fence, wall or simply the 'skin' of the building. It is at the perimeter that the security of the building and its contents begins. All buildings have penetrations in their skins - not just in the form of doors and windows, but also skylights, ventilation ducts, coal chutes, delivery shutters, utility duct covers, boiler room access panels and so on. It is very easy for those who live or work in a building to overlook such features.

Alarm Systems

Too often the response to security threats in equestrian properties has been an unthinking reflex response: 'Fit an alarm system'. While intruder detection systems can play an important role as part of a coherent security strategy, specifications for such systems are often produced by the supplying company, so it is not surprising that there have been some well-publicised cases of alarm systems failing in their intended purpose.

Security Lighting

Properly designed and installed lighting can play a considerable part in deterring would-be intruders. Again, correct specifications are important. Lighting should not only eliminate shadows or areas where an intruder can hide but should also be directed outwards from the building to provide security personnel with an advantage, silhouetting any intruder against the background and by shining into the intruder's eyes.

Closed Circuit TV

Like alarm systems, closed circuit television (CCTV) has frequently been proposed as a panacea for security problems. While CCTV is extremely useful for providing surveillance of such areas as car parks and stables, it must be remembered that to be effective there has to be a proper response to security breaches picked up by camera. Always consider who (if anyone)is actually going to be watching the system, and whether they are likely to respond to any incidents spotted on a monitor.