Schools are looking to actual warzone technology to limit fatalities from the next mass shooting

Just as fire alarms don’t prevent fires, gunshot-detection technology doesn’t prevent shootings.

But, Morales said, if gunfire is detected, he gets an “active shooter alert” sent to his desktop computer and his cellphone with precise details about where the shooting occurred in the building. Police and first responders get a similar message. The instant notification allows him to more effectively direct lockdown procedures, ushering people away from a shooter, and aid the emergency response, Morales said.

Critics view the gunshot-detection systems, which can cost $10,000 to $100,000 depending on the size of a school, as failing to address what they say should be the real goal — preventing gun violence.

“It’s a mistake to install, and it shouldn’t even be on the board for consideration,” said school safety consultant Ken Trump, who favors staff training and mental health efforts.

Ron Stephens, executive director of the nonprofit National School Safety Center, said one manufacturer asked his center to endorse its gunshot-detection tool. He declined, in part because his center doesn’t promote products. But he also considers the technology to be misguided.

He noted that hasn’t tampered enthusiasm for the devices.

“I’m a little surprised at the number of schools getting these installed,” Stephens said.

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