Article Text
Fairfax County Public Schools is installing a new emergency management system in every school building to help staff summon assistance faster and more discreetly during an emergency.
The Raptor system connects schools with FCPS security personnel, local emergency services and law enforcement. It includes sensors placed throughout school buildings and wearable Emergency Response Buttons for staff members.
When a button is activated on FCPS property, it alerts the FCPS Security Operations Center, emergency services and employees at the affected school. Building sensors identify where help is needed, allowing school staff and first responders to locate the incident more quickly.
The wearable button is an additional safety measure, not a replacement for calling 911. Staff may use it when a phone is unavailable or when making a call would be unsafe or impractical.
FCPS said the rollout is part of its broader effort to improve emergency preparedness, coordination and safety for students and employees.