D.C. Schools have launched a new app called the ‘Rave Panic Button’ which instantly sends all vital information to first responders in case of a crisis such as a shooting incident involving school children.
The new tool could potentially save the lives of children if they’re involved in a school shooting situation, says D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.
According to the app’s website, the Rave Panic Button clearly communicates an emergency in seconds to 9-1-1, on-site personnel, and first responders. “Rave Panic Button shortens response times and improves safety for all those in the immediate area,” explains the app’s site.
The app sends critical data like detailed caller location, floor plans, emergency exit locations, emergency contacts, and key procedures to first responders.
“When an authorized user activates Rave Panic Button, a 9-1-1 call is initiated and a 9-1-1 call taker has immediate access to additional information such as where in the facility the call is coming from, building floor plans and points of entry, as well as who launched the activation and the type of emergency situation at hand,” the app site informs.
“The additional information contained within a facility profile, provides our officers both on a school campus or anywhere in the district with critical information that allows them to handle whatever situation they are faced with as efficiently as possible,” said Michael Coligan, Metropolitan Police Department Commander.
The app has been distributed to all the D.C. schools and every D.C. building in order for them to be ready for emergencies. School teachers and administrators can quickly inform police via the app if there is an active shooter in the school building. First responders will instantly receive all information from the app about the school location and the blueprints of the building.
OUC and @RaveMSafety are excited to unveil the District’s newest public safety enhancement tool, the Rave Panic Button. The panic button reduces emergency response time with an instant alert to 9-1-1, on site personnel, and first responders in the event of an emergency. pic.twitter.com/MZM97VJLH8
— Office of Unified Communications (@OUC_DC) December 6, 2018
The app will let the first responders to get a better idea about the entry points and how to move around the building before arriving there. According to the D.C. Mayor’s Office, the app will be immediately introduced in all D.C. schools and government buildings.