The Galion Schools campus will undergo a district-wide lockdown drill on Monday, August 19, at 2:15 PM. This annual event is designed to review and reinforce safety procedures for all students and staff, ensuring that everyone is well-prepared in the event of an emergency.
Safety Procedures in Focus
The drill will provide an opportunity for the district’s safety team to evaluate the effectiveness of current protocols. All students and staff will participate in the exercise, practicing the procedures necessary to secure the campus during a potential threat. Additionally, there may be an increased presence of emergency vehicles on campus during the drill, as local responders will also take part in the exercise.
Technology in Action: CENTEGIX CrisisAlert System
A key component of this year’s drill is the testing of the CENTEGIX CrisisAlert system. This comprehensive emergency response solution is designed to enhance safety across the entire school campus. The system is particularly noted for its wearable mobile panic button, which allows staff to discreetly alert responders to emergencies with precise location details.
Key Features of the CrisisAlert System
- Wearable Panic Button: Staff members are equipped with a wearable badge that, when pressed, sends an instant alert to administrators and first responders, including exact location details.
- Types of Alerts:
- Staff Alert: Activated by a single button press, this alert notifies local responders and administrators of an “I need help” situation, showing the location and identity of the person in need.
- Campus-wide Alert: This feature initiates a rapid response across the campus, activating audio and visual notifications, and can optionally notify 911 dispatchers with precise location details.
- Location Accuracy: The system provides detailed location information, allowing responders to know exactly where assistance is needed, down to the specific floor and room.
- Total Facility Coverage: The CrisisAlert system covers every part of the campus, including outdoor areas, without relying on Wi-Fi or cellular networks, ensuring reliable communication anywhere on the premises.
- Audio and Visual Notifications: The system can trigger strobe lights, desktop alerts, and intercom announcements to communicate emergencies throughout the facility.
- Ease of Installation: The system is wire-free, requiring no modifications to existing structures, making it easy to install and maintain.
- Data and Analytics: Administrators have access to robust data and analytics, providing insights that can improve emergency responses.
Benefits to the School Community
The CENTEGIX CrisisAlert system is expected to bring significant benefits to the Galion Schools community:
- Rapid Response: By enabling quicker notification of responders with accurate location details, the system helps ensure a swift response, which can be critical in saving lives.
- Empowerment and Control: Teachers and staff have direct control over emergency alerts, allowing them to act quickly and decisively in critical situations.
- Enhanced Safety Culture: The presence of the CrisisAlert system fosters a culture of safety within the school, providing peace of mind to educators, students, and parents alike.
This drill is a proactive step in Galion Schools’ commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment. The technology team’s involvement ensures that the CrisisAlert system functions as intended, ready to provide real-time support in any emergency.
Image by Werner Moser from Pixabay
