Selecting the Right Panic Button for Your Organization

Panic Buttons come in Different Shapes and Sizes for Various Emergency Situations

When you hear the words “panic button” do you immediately picture a big red button that triggers flashing lights and loud sirens when you push it? If you did, you’re right. But you’re also wrong. Panic buttons (also called duress buttons or panic alarms buttons) can be big and red with the word “panic” written on it, but they can also be hidden, built into your desktop navigation tray, or even as an app on your phone.

Mobile Panic Buttons allow users to quickly send incident reports to Emergency Management from wherever they are.

Mobile Panic Buttons allow users to quickly send incident reports to Emergency Management from wherever they are.

In extreme emergencies such as an active shooter situation, the classic red button is still the go-to option—you need to call for help immediately. But schools and organizations often face scenarios where discretion is paramount to keep a potentially dangerous situation under control. 

In these situations, a covert call for help from pushing a hidden device, or a few discreet clicks of a mouse could potentially minimize any escalation from an agitated or suspicious individual who isn’t posing an immediate threat.

Under the Desk Panic Buttons allow users to immediately request help with a single, discreet push of a button.

Under the Desk Panic Buttons allow users to immediately request help with a single, discreet push of a button.

Every organization faces different types of threats and has to consider the best panic button option to fit their needs. K-12 schools may benefit from scenario-specific wall mounted panic buttons, while a corporate office is better served by software panic buttons installed on each computer task tray.

There are a lot of options out there, and it can be a daunting task to identify which option is right for you. Alertus offers multiple panic button options and we’re experienced in helping organizations select and implement each option. 

So, if you’re looking to implement panic buttons to streamline your mass notification system activation, I encourage you to join our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, November 30 at 12:00 Eastern. We will review four popular panic button options and share a live demonstration of how each option activates the Alertus Emergency Notification System. 

 
 
Caroline Kildaypanic button