First-Things-First Physical Security Fast Wins for Election Offices

Physical Security Fast Wins for Election Offices gives local election officials five low-cost actions they can implement at any time – including now! – to reduce physical security risks even without significant investment. 

The guide is built around a core principle: protection and detection must work together. Every action pairs a barrier with a way to know when that barrier has been tested.

The five quick wins, working from the outside in, are:

• Harden the perimeter: add planters, barriers, and strategic landscaping to create standoff distance and eliminate hiding spots.
  
• Control building access: introduce or enhance deadbolts, visitor logs, key audits, and a staff code-word alert system.
• Improve visibility: implement cameras, motion lighting, and convex mirrors to eliminate blind spots.
• Secure sensitive equipment and areas: ensure locked cabinets, tamper-evident seals, and a two-person integrity rule in place.
• Conduct a monthly security audit: implement a short walkaround to catch vulnerabilities before they become problems.

To access the full guide, visit the Election Security Exchange resource page.