On August 15, Findlay City Schools announced they will be implementing a new active shooter response called SafeDefense. This program will replace their current ALICE program. ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate.

“SafeDefend™ provides biometric access to a system of notification and response. Staff and law enforcement are immediately notified of the exact location of the crisis. With the touch of the finger, your facility can be locked down in seconds and help is on the way faster than any other solution available,” the SafeDefend website explains.

SafeDefend includes a biometric activated device, a lockbox to keep self defense tools, a siren, and a special P.A system. These can all help reduce the high mortality rates in school shootings.

“Findlay City Schools is the first district in Ohio to install SafeDefense,” School Board President Matt Cooper said (via fcs.org).

Although Findlay is the first district in Ohio to install SafeDefend, it has been installed in more than 300 schools in nine states.

“The safety and security of our staff and students is Findlay City Schools highest priority,” Cooper said (via fcs.org)

SafeDefend sends authorities right away when the button is pressed, so it takes a shorter amount of time. It also notifies them of the room number and teacher who pressed the button.

“We have to train our teachers first, Then we would, you know, discuss it with the kids,” Ryan Parsons, FHS’ Head of Security said.

The training will hopefully be done soon seeing as there have been numerous school shooter threats around the nation. Some fake, some real. This is a national concern that Safe Defense can help. There are mixed opinions but let’s hear from the school’s head of security.

“It’s a great thing for the Findlay City Schools.” Parsons said.