This school security system displays safe evacuation routes during shootings and disasters

When faced with life-threatening emergencies, such as active shooter situations or natural disasters, knowing the safest evacuation routes is crucial. Go To Green is a new emergency evacuation system designed to automatically guide people to the most secure locations during crises. The system employs colored lights to direct individuals towards the safest evacuation route and away from danger.

Ernie Williams, the founder of Go To Green, suggests that using familiar colored lights, similar to the childhood game "Red Light, Green Light," makes the system intuitive and easy to understand. The system comprises thin LED light arrays and various sensors that detect gunshots or fires, activating to show green or red lights on walls and doors.

Red and blue lights flash near the threat source, whether it be a fire or a shooter. This essentially transforms buildings into real-time evacuation tools, providing a clear visual indication of where to go and where to stay clear of during emergencies. Williams, a former Marine with extensive military experience, developed the idea for Go To Green after observing the shortcomings of existing indoor systems.

His sensors are designed to pinpoint the location of threats independently, even if they move. Currently, Go To Green is installed in 20 schools, mostly in Texas, with none having been triggered for active shooter incidents. However, they have been activated during tornadoes, alerting students and staff to take shelter. The company is backed by O’Leary Ventures, the investment arm of Shark Tank star Kevin O’Leary.

While Go To Green is primarily focused on active shooter scenarios, it also aids first responders by using exterior blue and red lights to indicate the location of the threat, whether it's a fire or a person with a gun. This visual signal allows emergency responders to react more efficiently without relying on radios or phones. According to Amanda Klinger, director of operations at The Educator’s School Safety Network, Go To Green has the potential to be a valuable addition to a school’s security system.

However, Klinger emphasizes that training and threat prevention are equally important to reduce the likelihood of rare and extreme events like active shooter incidents. Klinger cautions that schools must provide appropriate training for both staff and students and not rely solely on security systems as the sole solution. Klinger worries that districts may prioritize seemingly simple products and systems as a quick fix, without investing in essential training and prevention measures.

Go To Green's creators see their system as a means to minimize harm from shootings and other emergencies by making it easier for people to avoid threats and for first responders to respond more effectively. Williams believes that the focus should be on protecting potential victims, while professionals handle the shooter.