Panic Button systems for schools vary in functionality. Most often organizations use their current burglar alarm company to provide them with a hard-wired panic button. These hard-wired panic button alarms are usually inexpensive. It is also easier to create an account since the alarm company is a current vendor. I refer to these type panic buttons as being very traditional. Moreover, they are usually hard-wired and use a phone line to alert only one responder. Traditional panic buttons average around three minutes to alert only one responder. Also, many panic buttons default and fail to alert the responder. The traditional panic buttons also fail to confirm notification was received.
What is the Main Reason to Have Panic Buttons for Schools?
The idea behind having panic button systems for schools is to lower the time between the onset of an incident and when responders are on the scene. The goal is to notify responders rapidly. This allows for quick de-escalate any crisis, which lowers the opportunity of victimization. The large time delay of the traditional panic buttons is the reason why they are rapidly becoming discounted and ruled ineffective by responders.
Why are Traditional Panic Buttons a Mistake?
With traditional panic buttons, the incident has usually already occurred because of the delayed notification of several minutes. Not only is there a delayed notification, but the panic alarm also fails to give any information to responders about what was happening. Moreover, many of the panic button systems for schools are activated accidentally. No one ever knows what button the initial alert originated. The traditional panic button system for schools is still acknowledged to by responders with high priority. However, the delayed notification time on the panic buttons that work has proven to be ineffective for a rapid response.
Does Technology Offer Solutions for Panic Button Systems for Schools?
Yes! Technology has caught up and revolutionized the way people respond to situations. The increase in global in domestic terrorism creates a clear and imminent need to have panic buttons for schools. People believe mobile apps are the cure-all for these types of situations. However, an app is not solely the best option. Think about if there was an emergency. Would you have time to find your phone, open it, and locate the app to raise a panic? Phone app panic buttons focus more on individuals rather than buildings and people inside. The key for an effective panic button for schools is to lower the notification time to responders and to integrate internal and external notification. Combining internal and external notification means that it notifies everyone within the school while alerting responders at the same time. Internal and external notification should be merged into the push of a button.
How Much Should I Budget for School Panic Buttons?
The key is to find a technology-driven based panic button system that offers free system updates to ensure you do not get stuck with an outdated program. Technology is always changing just like your business. Look for a scalable system that meets your exact needs and the cost will always offset. Surprisingly, the technology-driven school panic buttons are usually priced three to one less than the traditional panic buttons while offering several other innovative features that can easily be molded to your particular needs.
Still Unsure About Panic Button Systems for Schools?
Contact us for more information to make the best decision for your panic button systems for schools.
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