Page 87 - Security Today, JulyAugust 2023

"Some of the challenges that schools are facing when it comes to emergency response and lockdown systems include ensuring that all staff and students are trained on the proper procedures and protocols." Missing Piece to Lockdown Puzzle As these existing systems have been used by most schools, there was still a missing piece to the lockdown puzzle. A brand-new technology was brought to market recently that gives teachers power in their classroom when it comes to providing a safe learning environment. A new Lock- down & Emergency Response System, Sentry ERS, was introduced by IPVideo Corporation that provides bi-directional information during an emergency. It allows first responders to have their eyes and ears on the lockdown area and understand clearly the scene on hand. With the simple push of a lockdown button, the entire school lockdown protocol is activated—which includes doors locking, PA announcements, strobe lights activated throughout facility, audible lockdown messages, loca- tion beacons activated, and police dispatch notified. Push notifications can be sent to security/administrators/the com- munity, etc., with live audio and video communications automatically established with first responders to assess and address the critical situa- tion within seconds. “Being able to communicate accurate and real-time information is crucial in any emergency situation,” said David Antar, President at IPVideo Corporation. “Schools have been searching for a solution to this issue for years, and we knew that we could provide the lajulia19/Shutterstock.com missing piece to the lockdown puzzle.” Schools now have a simple, easy, and fast lockdown system at their fin- gertips. The benefits of this new solution include faster responses to critical threats, better informed/prepared first responders & teachers, better emer- gency preparedness, and complete respect for privacy. By integrating video, voice, text, and GPS location data from classrooms and other areas where traditional video cameras cannot be deployed, schools can now rest easy knowing that all areas are being monitored. Teachers can have their privacy protected and still have the security they need in the classroom. Challenges of Emergency Response Systems Some of the challenges that schools are facing when it comes to emer- gency response and lockdown systems include ensuring that all staff and students are trained on the proper procedures and protocols. It’s impor- tant that a system offers a simple practice/drill mode so everyone gets comfortable with it. Additionally, schools must also consider the emo- tional impact that lockdown drills and emergency situations can have on students and staff. Another key consideration is the system’s analytics capabilities. Schools should look for an emergency response system that provides comprehensive data analysis and reporting tools, allowing teachers and administrators to easily track student progress, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions. It should also offer mobility and be available anywhere a teacher/staff member might go such as outside for recess. Overall, the best emergency response system for a school will depend on their specific needs and preferences. As an integrator, it’s important to review and evaluate different options with schools before making a final decision, and to involve a diverse group of stakeholders in the selection process to ensure the system meets the needs of all users. Monique Merhige is the President of Infusion Direct Marketing, Inc. JULY/AUGUST 2023 campuslifesecurity.com 11