Myth: School panic buttons are most commonly found on the classroom wall.

Truth: School personnel can initiate a panic alert either using a mobile application on their phone or using a button that they wear around their neck.

Myth: When activated, a panic button will immediately set off a loud alarm warning.

Truth: Panic buttons have silent panic activation options. Silent activation can be crucial in scenarios where maintaining a low profile is essential for safety.

Myth: Panic buttons enable 1-way communication to responders
Truth: In addition to alerting authorities, panic buttons equipped with RapidDeploy enable two-way communication between the individual in distress and emergency responders. This feature enhances situational awareness and facilitates better coordination during critical incidents.

 Myth: Panic buttons sole purpose is to alert authorities when there is an emergency.
Truth: Panic buttons will not only alert authorities when there is an emergency, panic buttons also provide precise location-based alerts. Alyssa’s Law mandates panic buttons to provide precise location information to responders. RapidDeploy-integrated panic buttons go a step further by automatically transmitting real-time location data to emergency dispatchers, ensuring responders can locate and assist individuals quickly and accurately.

Myth: Panic buttons are planned for the future of schools and not yet widely implemented.

Truth: Alyssa’s Law came into effect in 2019 and this critical legislation addresses the issue of law enforcement response time when a life-threatening emergency occurs. The law calls for the installation of silent panic alarms that are directly linked to law enforcement, so in case of any emergency they will get on the scene as quickly as possible, take down a threat and triage any victims. Currently, five states have passed legislation, with 10 states in progress to pass and seven federal laws are currently in place.

Myth: Even if a panic button is activated within a school, it is difficult for first responders to know what floor or even what building the panic button was activated from.

Truth: Panic buttons integrated with RapidDeploy can seamlessly incorporate indoor floor plans into emergency response protocols. This feature allows emergency dispatchers to visualize the exact location of the panic button activation within the building, providing responders with crucial information to navigate complex indoor environments quickly and efficiently.

These lesser-known facts highlight the advanced capabilities and benefits of panic buttons integrated with RapidDeploy’s Radius Mapping technology, offering comprehensive solutions for improving emergency response and compliance with Alyssa’s Law.