In this featured piece by Security Sales & Integration, Paul Shain of Singlewire Software, explains how mass notification systems help campuses build and manage active shooter response plans. He describes how campuses can prebuild clear, actionable text and audio messages for each stage of an event, from the initial alert to shelter-in-place instructions to an all-clear, relieving pressure on administrators trying to write messages amid a fast-moving situation. Shain details how these systems can reach people across a wide range of on-site and mobile devices simultaneously, and how they can be set off through panic buttons, mobile apps, speed dials, or automated integrations with gunshot detection systems and 911 call monitoring. He also covers how campus leaders can use these systems to gather stakeholders in a virtual space, request status updates from students and staff, and generate after-action reports to improve future response plans.
Key Takeaways
- Paul Shain of Singlewire Software writes that mass notification systems let campuses prebuild messages for each stage of an active shooter event, from initial alert to all-clear.
- These systems can deliver simultaneous text and audio alerts across desk phones, speakers, paging systems, digital signage, and mobile devices to reach the widest possible audience.
- Campuses can set off alerts through manual or virtual panic buttons, mobile apps, and speed dials, creating a single-touch activation method available from anywhere on campus.
- Integrations with gunshot detection systems and 911 call monitoring can automatically set off alerts, helping campus leaders learn about a threat the moment it occurs.
- After an event ends, mass notification systems can generate reports on alert delivery and response effectiveness to help campuses identify gaps and improve future plans.
Original Story
Planning for an active shooter situation is a daunting task for any campus. The seriousness of the event means meticulous preparations are required to ensure that awareness is high, risk is minimal, and responses are quick. None of those goals are achieved by accident, and campus leaders need to have the tools in place that aid them in keeping everyone safe.
Mass notification systems can play a critical role in campus safety, especially when it comes to active shooter situations. These tools are continuing to evolve to offer more than just simple alerting features. Critical event management capabilities are providing campuses with more methods for handling emergency events, and it all begins with planning.