Guardian System Merges Gunshot Detection, Mass Notification Technologies

  • By Matt Jones
  • June 15, 2021

Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), a gunshot detection provider, and Singlewire Software, a mass notification service provider, have partnered to create a new product meant to increase public safety during an active shooter event. The Guardian Indoor Active Shooter Detection System can both detect gunshots within a space and immediately broadcast an emergency notification to the building’s occupants through multiple media including audio broadcast systems, desktop alerts, digital signs, mobile devices, and email.

The Guardian System uses a system of acoustic and infrared devices to accurately recognize gunshots and filter out false alarms. When a shot is fired, the sensors transmit its location within the building and the building’s address to the building’s occupants and to first responders, respectively. By automating the emergency notification process, the system creates the opportunity for a wider, more rapid response based on accurate information.

“The goal is to enhance the speed and reach of an organization’s emergency messages during active shooter incidents,” said Pat Scheckel, Singlewire Software VP of product management. “Now, the moment a gunshot is detected, automated alerts can be sent to all of their people and devices at once, further reducing response time when every second is critical to life safety.”

The Guardian System uses Singlewire’s InformaCast technology to distribute gunshot detection notification based on parameters pre-configured by the user. Customizations include the content of text and audio messages broadcast after a shot has been detected. The notifications can be broadcast via IP speakers and IP phones, displayed on digital signs or through desktop alerts, and sent to users’ mobile phones and emails. Administrators can also configure who receives the message, from a select group of security personnel to the building’s entire population.

InformaCast can also connect members of incident management teams. After a gunshot is detected, stakeholders can receive an invitation to a virtual meeting system like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or a conference call to allow them to collaborate, assess the situation, and respond appropriately.

“Guardian was built as a standalone gunshot detection and reporting system, but the true power of automation is unleashed when we partner with companies like Singlewire,” said Rich Onofrio, SDS Managing Director. “When you combine the reliability, speed, and precision of our gunshot detection technology with a dynamic mass notification system like InformaCast, organizations have an incredible solution to the problems associated with accurate detection and swift response to active shooter incidents.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning and Campus Security and Life Safety. He can be reached at [email protected]

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