A gunshot/explosion notification system has been installed at the UConn Storrs campus. It’s the first of its kind to be put in place at a public university in the U.S., according to the company that installed it.
New Haven-based Verbi Inc. installed the system, which can provide first responders GPS coordinates, floor-plans showing shooter location, and a unique pinpoint feature providing active control of live video if an active shooter incident occurs. The system can detect gunshots or explosions up to a range of 100 meters indoors or 450 meters outdoors.
UConn agreed to pilot the technology after Robert Hotaling, the president and CEO of Verbi, and a UConn alumni, offered to donate the equipment. The gift, which includes the gunshot detector, two servers, and video cameras, is valued at $175,000.
Hans Rhynhart, UConn’s interim director of public safety and chief of police, said there have been no active shooter scenarios at the university. He said the system is being installed as a proactive measure.
Verbi’s technology detects gunshots and explosions, notifies campus police by text message, mobile app, email, and text-to-speech automated calls enhancing response beyond a typical 911 call-dispatch scenario. The system is capable of integrating with door-locks to allow immediate access or barricade. Verbi Security can also send official alerts in real-time to students, faculty, and employees as events unfold.
