Mixed-use facilities pose unique security challenges involving these key considerations:

Diverse Security Requirements . The occupancy of a mixed-use facility includes retail tenants and shoppers, theater attendees and condominium residents. Each group has a different view of security. Each of these needs must be addressed and balanced in a master security plan that takes into account the diverse nature of the facility and what could threaten its security at any given time.

Emergency Communications . Due to different security approaches for specific areas of a mixed-use facility, there can be confusion in an emergency such as a fire or intrusion. The most important factor in an emergency is how well building officials can communicate with all the building occupants to assure life safety and security.

24/7 Protection . Good security for a mixed-use facility is determining who belongs where at any time of the day or night. This requires the establishment of flexible levels of security which can be employed in specific areas at specific times (for example, the control of visitor access to residential areas at night).