Why Every School Needs a Mass Notification System

Many of you likely remember the string of social media threats directed at schools across the South Plains. While schools in Lubbock, TX, felt no credible threat warranted immediate action, neighboring Ralls ISD and Olton and Plainview High Schools issued lockouts as a precautionary measure. In this situation, only parents and guardians can pick up students.

In today’s environment, spreading false threats like this can leave everyone anxious and uncertain. In instances like this, a mass notification system can instill a sense of safety across the community, alerting staff and parents if there is cause for alarm and the appropriate action to take. 

Let’s explore what these systems offer and why every school in Texas should have one. 

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Ensuring Accurate and Timely Communication

A mass notification system lets schools send information across multiple channels. Effective communication between schools, parents, staff, and law enforcement is critical in an emergency or day-to-day affairs. These systems enable immediate notifications sent to all parties via app alerts, email, telephone, text messages, and social media posts. This type of widespread dissemination ensures expedient and truthful information sharing.

Depending on the situation, multiple communication lines may be used. For instance, an email can provide much more information than a text message, including attachments. Text messages, however, have a much better chance of being read. In the most urgent situations, schools send voice calls that automatically leave a message if unanswered. Facebook or other social media platform posts also efficiently share the latest information with the community.

Mass notification systems can even allow two-way communication, letting parents alert schools of serious issues such as bullying. A tip line can transfer to the school’s automated system or go directly to a teacher. A two-way communication tool lets parents ask questions and express concerns for non-emergency communication. The system directs the question to the appropriate department, and an emailed response is received.

Reaching the Right People at the Right Time

In cases of fire, water leaks, or active shooter events, different areas of the school may require different responses. For instance, some buildings and classrooms may need to activate lockdowns, while others should evacuate immediately. Targeting specific stakeholder groups or building areas ensures the correct information reaches the right people and the appropriate response is followed. 

It’s too easy to panic in worst-case scenarios. For this reason, updated safety protocols or school maps with meeting points may be included. A lockdown notification can clarify if the potential threat is on school grounds or in the building. Ultimately, the right people are notified effectively and efficiently, potentially saving lives.

How Schools Use Mass Notification Systems

While the first thought on everyone’s mind these days is active shooters and other violent incidents, schools can utilize these advanced technology systems for any form of communication. Inform parents and faculty about upcoming weather events, school closures, transportation delays, teacher-parent conferences, and more.

Using multiple channels to reach the Lubbock community ensures accurate communication during crises and day-to-day campus operations. Today, every school should have this vital technology. To learn more about campus technologies or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact ASAP Security Services today.