Situational awareness is key to enacting a swift response to a security incident. For monitoring operators and security teams, triggered alarms from a video surveillance or access control system alert them to an emergency situation. But what about the people in the vicinity of where an incident is occurring? A lack of awareness or understanding of what is happening can lead to chaos and even more damage. That’s why having a mass notification system in place is so vital. And while mass notification systems are instrumental in protecting people and property in all facilities, they are particularly needed in school settings.
As a leading provider of integrated security solutions, NextGen is a trusted partner to K-12 schools. Our customized physical and electronic security services are designed to provide a safe and secure learning environment. Our Mass Notification systems deliver instant alerts that enable swift action to be taken. They deliver the sorely needed peace of ming that critical, time-sensitive information if provided in the event of an emergency. Schools have come to rely on our leading-edge technology solutions to allow them to communicate quickly, resulting in prompt and appropriate responses and security measures, including instant lockdowns, to ensure everyone’s safety during emergency events.
Although places of learning have traditionally been viewed as safe spaces, tragic incidents such as school shootings have hit the headlines far too frequently. School districts and stakeholders have come to understand the importance of equipping our K-12 schools with robust security measures. While access control and video surveillance play huge parts, mass notification systems are also proving to be a strong defense in any school’s security arsenal. Here’s why:
The emergency alerts and instant notifications that these systems provide are instrumental in helping staff and students take quick action during crises such as active shooter situations and severe weather events. Alerts can be sent across multiple channels, including SMS, email, phone calls, and digital signage to ensure everyone receives vital information. The size of the school doesn’t matter – whether for a single building or a large campus, mass notification systems can be tailored to fit specific security needs.
Parents are also kept in the know – they are sent important messages via text, email, or app alerts regarding school incidents, lockdowns, and closures, as well as attendance status communications. Mass notification systems can also be used to deliver routine, non-emergency announcements such as scheduling changes, event reminders, and extracurricular activities.
And to work seamlessly with other security systems within the school, our mass notification systems integrate easily to work in conjunction with fire alarms, video surveillance cameras, and access control systems.
NextGen Security has a deep understanding of the unique security challenges that K-12 schools face. We work closely with school administrators to identify security risks, identify specific safety requirements and specify custom solutions that meet their needs and budgets. Call on us to learn more.