The Essential Features in a School Emergency Notification System

According to a recent 2023 survey conducted by Campus Safety, more schools are using an emergency notification system than ever before. The increased adoption started in 2007 after the deadliest school shooting in our nation’s history took place on the campus of Virginia Tech. The lack of communication and emergency notifications prompted schools to look closely at how they notify students, staff, and parents in the event of an emergency.

Let’s explore the important information this survey revealed and how you can ensure your school in Katy, TX, offers the best forms of communication that can save lives in an emergency and provide quick messaging during day-to-day school affairs.

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Upgrading Your Emergency Notification System

The survey found that 35% of K-12 schools and school districts plan on upgrading or deploying new mass notification systems in the next two years, and another 36% are considering it. The most commonly used channels for emergency notification are mobile apps, text messaging, emails, and panic buttons.

Some challenges noted in the survey include message delivery verification, budgets or funding, and micromanagement. The latter came in the form of administrators who felt the need to approve and edit every outgoing message, using up valuable time that’s critical when protecting lives and property.

Overcoming Challenges

Almost a quarter of K-12 schools use grants to pay for their emergency notification system. In 2022, Texas regulators announced over $17 million in funding available to school districts for the purchase of silent panic alert technologies. An additional $400 million was relegated to upgrading communication systems and other safety measures.

The second challenge, delayed messaging, can be resolved with pre-approved emergency message templates. These messages are automatically sent via SMS, email, pre-recorded phone messages, or social media platforms, depending on the recipients.

They instruct people on the steps they need to take for protection, such as immediately seeking shelter or evacuating. These systems may also automatically alert first responders in an emergency. Virtual panic buttons, mobile apps, and multi-channel messaging are all important elements to consider when selecting the right system for your school.

Use of Emergency Communication Systems

These systems are used for numerous emergency situations, including fires, severe weather events, active shooter incidents, and natural disasters. In addition to emergencies, administrators use them for daily reminders and unexpected changes in the schedule. These notifications include school closures, parent-teacher meetings, school event changes, and student rental device reminders. Emergency notifications reach everyone when minutes count.

Working with ASAP Security Services

At ASAP Security Services, we work with schools and school districts across the great state of Texas, enhancing security measures that ensure the safest environment. To learn more about emergency notification systems or to schedule a complimentary consultation or site survey, contact ASAP Security Services today.