How An Emergency Notification System Helps Keep Your School Safer

While thankfully not everyday occurrences, emergency, and critical situations arise at schools. Whether it’s a weather emergency, a malfunctioning school system or power outage, a dangerous intruder, or something else, it’s essential that communication to students, teachers, and staff be clear, concise, accurate, and provide instructions on what to do.

One way to ensure your Austin, Texas school is ready to cope with challenging events is with an emergency notification system that uses various communication technologies to clearly communicate with all constituencies for fast precautions and actions. Keep reading for several ways these systems can prevent a challenging situation from becoming a dangerous one.

SEE ALSO: How Schools Can Utilize Emergency Notification Systems in the Time of COVID-19

Panic Buttons

Some emergency systems offer panic buttons that can trigger several immediate forms of communication. For example, in the case of fire, a severe storm, or an armed intruder, a press of a panic button can initiate a prerecorded message over wireless PA speakers throughout the building or campus with specific instructions on how to act. Panic buttons can be wall-mounted or carried by particular teachers or staff trained to understand what happens next.

Using mass notification systems, students, parents, and staff that may be off-campus or outside the building can be notified that a situation is developing, along with specific instructions on how to obtain more information. Mass notifications can go out via text messages, emails, and push notifications to smartphone apps.

Visual Alerts

Digital signage and LED message boards can be tied into emergency notification systems, displaying customized messages and protocols to be followed. In the case of mass power outage or fire and limited visibility, beacons can light the most efficient path for evacuating buildings. Even the school Jumbotron can be integrated to display specific messaging to alert parents and others approaching the campus.

Multi-Channel Communication

It’s essential to use multiple modes of communication to reach all constituencies. Some people use email and text messaging more than others. In emergencies, one form of communication _ like losing local cell towers in severe weather - can hamper immediate messaging. It's critical to use all methods at the school's disposal, including landlines and social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Also, geo-fencing can help tailor messages to specific parties. If only some subset of the school and community are affected by an emergency, tailored communication can help alert and inform only those that need to be, decreasing worry and panic. 

Equip your Austin-area schools and campuses with the necessary notification systems to cope with emergencies. ASAP Security Services has vast experience across Texas with sophisticated security and surveillance systems in the public and commercial sectors. Call (877) 418-ASAP today, or visit our contact page to set up a consultation.