Wisconsin High School Implements Emergency Call Solution

Shorewood High School in Wisconsin recently installed and implemented the Help Alert Emergency Call Solution, a wireless staff duress system manufactured and marketed by RF Technologies Inc.

The new RFID-based call system outfits teachers with wireless pendant-style push buttons that are used to summon immediate assistance in the event of a medical or security emergency.

Fortunately, Shorewood High School has not experienced serious security incidents. But concern for the continuing well-being of students and staff remains a priority with administration, and this technology helps to ensure a safe and secure environment.

When a teacher needs urgent assistance with a medical or security concern, the teacher presses the button on a pendant that can be worn on a necklace, wristband or belt clip, or concealed in a pocket. With the press of a button, a silent signal is immediately transmitted to a central in-house computer, which can be set up to forward the teacher's name and the location of the emergency to pagers, walkie-talkies, wireless phones, or cell phones; for example, Mrs. Smith, Lunch Room.

"In a crisis or medical emergency, response time is critical. Help Alert will allow us to minimize the time needed to respond to such an event and take the necessary action rapidly to ensure the safety of our students,” said Timothy Kenney, safety administrator of Shorewood School District. “Since student safety is the number one priority, this is why we chose to have this system installed."

With the implementation of the Help Alert technology, Shorewood High School elevates its security above the perimeter defenses of security guards, hallway cameras and metal detectors that are traditionally employed on many campuses.

The emergency call pendants can be carried directly to classrooms, locker rooms, athletic fields and other areas on school grounds where incidents may occur and there is no security coverage. Response time is significantly decreased, and because the security signal is wireless and silent, the teacher is able to call for help without escalating the situation.


 

Featured

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

New Products

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.