How VOLT's AI Technology Can Make Schools Safer

As we prepare to publish this blog, Apalachee High School located in Barrow County, GA was the scene of the latest school mass shooting. At least four were killed and nine taken to the hospital. Our thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy.

In a world where technology is rapidly transforming every aspect of our lives, VOLT's AI-driven solutions are making a significant impact in ensuring the safety of students in schools. Recently highlighted by WJLA in Washington, DC, VOLT's cutting-edge technology has been credited with not only enhancing school security but also detecting medical emergencies in real-time.

The Increasing Need for School Safety Technology

The necessity of advanced safety measures in schools cannot be overstated. According to recent data, the 2023-2024 school year has already seen a notable number of medical incidents. An estimated 2.4 million students were transported from schools to emergency rooms across the U.S. between 2017 and 2021, with sports-related activities being a significant cause.(NCES, Fine Law Firm)

Adding to the urgency, a 2024 report from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) revealed that during the 2021-2022 school year, U.S. public schools recorded 857,500 violent incidents. This means that 67% of schools reported at least one violent incident, highlighting the pervasive nature of violence in educational environments​.

Moreover, the same report found that 61% of schools reported at least one physical attack or fight without a weapon, and 4% reported such attacks with a weapon. These numbers underline the critical importance of implementing robust safety measures that can identify and respond to these threats in real time​.While some schools administrators weigh the pros and cons of adding metal detectors to their school environment, others are exploring solutions with AI. 

AI That Does More Than Monitor

VOLT’s AI technology, seamlessly integrated into existing surveillance systems, is designed to recognize signs of distress, such as someone lying on the ground or slumped over, and can immediately alert the appropriate authorities. This capability has already proven life-saving, as highlighted in a recent case where the AI detected a custodian who had fainted after hitting her head and promptly called for help.

The system’s versatility extends beyond medical emergencies. It can also identify potential threats like active shooters and monitor for other safety concerns such as fights, making it an invaluable tool for school administrators. The adaptability of the AI to reduce false positives, such as distinguishing between someone sleeping at their desk and a genuine medical emergency, further enhances its reliability.

Real-Life Impact in Schools

When VOLT speaks to school security professionals they’re quick to point out, "We don't have the luxury of dedicating someone to just sitting in front of the camera feeds. So when they learn of the capabilities of an AI powered security solution, the value is clear.

The deployment of VOLT’s AI has already resulted in timely interventions that have likely improved student outcomes. These instances highlight the life-saving potential of AI when integrated into campuses and school environments, particularly during after-hours when fewer staff members are present.

In a recent conversation, a school security professional recounted "Just yesterday, we got an incident in the gym where 18 girls ran into the bathroom locker room to watch two girls fight... having VOLT detection would have notified me, and I could have had security officers in there just like that." 

With nearly one in three middle schools reporting weekly school bullying, an AI powered solution like VOLTs offers school boards an alternative to increasing Security Resource Officers (SRO). 

The increasing number of medical incidents in schools, combined with the ever-present threat of violence, underscores the need for comprehensive safety solutions like those using AI to enhance surveillance capabilities. When schools can respond quickly to emergencies, they are likely reducing the severity of injuries and possibly saving lives.

As companies like VOLT continue to innovate and refine technology, the future of school safety looks brighter. The ability to quickly identify and respond to a variety of emergencies could set a new standard for school safety protocols, offering peace of mind to students, parents, and educators alike.

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