Why Every School Should Have a Mass Notification System

Clear communication is one of the most critical elements during a school emergency. Whether the crisis stems from an active shooter, severe weather, bomb threat, or fire, it's important to have a plan that ensures teachers, staff, parents, and first responders receive immediate notification.

And that’s where a mass notification system comes in. These systems send alerts in an emergency and provide effective messaging for many other typical school events, such as reminders for early dismissals and after-school activities.

Let’s explore how these systems provide the clearest communication in every situation.

SEE ALSO: Does Your Texas School Have a Gunshot Detection System?

Communication Over Multiple Channels

Using one integrated system, you can send alerts regarding a school or an entire school district, reaching those needing information and enabling them to act quickly. These messages can be automatically sent via voice, email, text, social media, a school's website, and a mobile app. 

One of its strengths lies in reaching people on their preferred communication platform. While you won't always use each platform when sending messages, it's important to have these options.

The system also allows administrators to immediately send pre-recorded emergency messages from computers, cell phones, or desk phones. Staff is made aware of any emergency situation, including the need to evacuate, shelter in place, or lockdown. This form of information dissemination is critical when every second counts. 

Mass Communication Systems Are for More Than Emergencies

Your system should be part of your school’s daily communication strategy, not reserved for emergency use only. Mass notification systems are used for any urgent notifications or reminders, such as transportation delays, early closures, school dismissals due to weather events, and postponed activities. 

They can also be used to send a social media push, text reminder, and website alert all at once and offer an effective method for distributing parent-teacher conference schedules. Can you imagine the hours saved when you can create one piece of content and send it to numerous channels with one touch? 

You can also decide how each communication channel will be used, such as sending text alerts only in the event of an emergency. Sharing your communication plans with parents and guardians at the beginning of a school year will ensure they know that, should they receive a text message from your district or school, it's a critical message.

Features to Consider

• Translation: Schools in Houston serve diverse communities, and not all parents speak English. Some mass notification systems offer integrated translation tools to ensure everyone receives the message in their preferred language.
• Integrations: Automating manual uploads, like contact lists, ensures urgent communications reach their intended recipients. These systems also allow you to create groups and easily send messages to the appropriate people.
• Templates: Common messages can be created beforehand, and templates let you fill in the needed communications, saving time in vital situations.

In our current environment, every school should be able to target effective communications at a moment's notice without worrying about how to deliver the message. At ASAP Security Services, we help schools across Texas create customized mass notification systems for their unique needs and environment. To learn more or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact ASAP Security Services today.