Article Published Kokomo Tribune – July 23, 2023
In recent years, tragic school shootings have become an all-too-familiar headline, leaving us with a sense of helplessness and grief. While we’ve made significant strides in fire safety and prevention, it’s disheartening to see that we haven’t taken similar actions to address the escalating issue of school shootings. As a society, we must come together to prioritize the safety of our children and invest in proactive measures that can make a real difference.
In the 1950s, the alarming number of deaths in school fires prompted a collective response. Fire codes were enacted, and automated fire alarm and sprinkler systems became common in buildings, effectively reducing the severity of fire-related incidents. We recognized the value of prevention and took action. So why are we hesitating to implement similar commonsense measures for the safety of our children in the face of active shooters?
It’s true that we have the knowledge and technology to mitigate the impact of school shootings. Just like smoke detectors warn us of fires, advanced camera systems, and gunshot detectors can recognize the presence of a gun on school premises. These innovative solutions can be seamlessly integrated into school security protocols, providing real-time alerts to law enforcement, school administrators, and designated personnel, allowing for swift responses and potentially saving lives.
In an active shooter situation, time is of the essence. Studies show that it takes approximately five minutes for someone to realize they are in danger and reach emergency services. During this critical time, a shooter can inflict devastating harm. Automated security systems, with their advanced AI and energy signature-based technology, can instantly detect threats and activate response protocols. By providing accurate information to first responders, these systems can help them navigate to the exact location of the threat, minimizing response times and increasing the chances of a successful resolution.
Despite the clear benefits and cost-effectiveness of these systems, there is no standardized building or safety code requiring their implementation nationwide. This is a glaring oversight, considering that the cost of gunshot detection systems is relatively low compared to fire safety measures. It is time for school boards, architects, community members, and legislators to step up and advocate for new regulations that prioritize the safety of our children.
We have seen some encouraging steps in the right direction, with states like New Jersey passing laws like Alyssa’s Law, which emphasizes the importance of rapid response to school shootings. However, we need comprehensive, nationwide solutions that encompass prevention training and the integration of advanced technology.
The safety of our children is not a partisan issue. It is a shared responsibility that requires collective action. We must unite and advocate for change at all levels of government. Let us use our voices to call on local, state, and federal representatives to prioritize active shooter prevention and invest in the necessary technology and training. By doing so, we can work towards a future where our children can attend school without the constant fear of violence.
Together, we can make a difference and protect the lives of our most precious assets—our children.
Chris Grollnek
Founder, Active Shooter Prevention Project, LLC
#NEVERHERE
