“Alyssa’s Law” Encourages Tennessee Schools To Install Silent Panic Alarms
Image Credit: alyssas-law.com
The Tennessee Conservative Staff –
New legislation encourages Tennessee schools to enhance their safety plans by adding silent panic alarms that will call police when activated.
“Alyssa’s Law” was named for 14-year-old Alyssa Alhadeff. Alyssa was shot during a school shooting in Parkland, Florida, in February 2018.
Since that time, Alyssa’s mother Lori Alhadeff has lobbied state and federal lawmakers to pass legislation that would help to increase the response time of law enforcement officers to emergencies at public schools.
Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Texas have already passed “Alyssa’s Law,” making silent panic alarms a requirement for all schools. Tennessee’s recently passed version of the laws encourages school systems to add them but does not require them.
Silent alarms can now be as simple as utilizing an app. Companies such as Raptor Technologies and SaferWatch provide technology that allow school officials to press a button on the app to call for law enforcement and other first responders in the event of an emergency.
The apps also allow for additional safety measures such as classroom check-ins, group chats, and roster access for reunification in case of evacuation.
David Rogers, chief marketing officer for Raptor Technologies, said, “The whole idea behind ‘Alyssa’s Law’ is that seconds matter. The faster that you can respond to an active shooter event, the more lives are going to be saved.”
Lori notes the importance of parental involvement in bringing about change in school safety policies.
“I think it’s important to know that these safety measures are crucial; that you make sure as a parent that you get involved with the safety at your school,” Lori said.
She recognizes the value that has already come with her advocacy.
“I know that every time that panic button is pushed, that Alyssa is saving lives,” she stated.
“Alyssa’s Law” is just one component of a whole plan for school safety enhancements that was passed during the last General Assembly.
I am glad its just a suggestion. We need trained and armed people in schools. Nothing beats a man on the spot.
The police are 10 minutes away. That gunfight in the church in Texas was over in eight seconds.