Building a Safer Fanshawe

Over the past year, we have invested in several technology upgrades to improve emergency communications and security at our London campus. Most of our updated emergency systems are now operational, making Fanshawe an even safer place to study, work, and visit.

Fanshawe is now a safer place than ever to study, work, and visit.

We have installed an Emergency Notification System that will use computers to deliver messages across campus. The system gives Campus Security Services (CSS) the capability to post important communications on all network computers in emergency situations.

Desktops will soon be equipped with an emergency icon that provides instant communication with CSS. For example, if there is a problem in a computer lab, users will be able to simply click the icon and send an instant message to CSS, which will be able to act quickly and appropriately. This enhancement will significantly increase the speed and nature of our response to critical situations on campus, whether it's a health emergency, fire, or any other issue.

We are also in the process of putting two-way voice communication technology in all of our high tech lecture podiums. The podiums will link directly to the Help Desk, allowing professors to talk with Help Desk staff to resolve technology problems, or with CSS in an emergency. CSS will also be able to interrupt classes via the podium with emergency information. Fanshawe's IT department continues to install the equipment and set up programming at stations across campus.

In addition to these enhancements, we have installed a new fire alarm system that offers several important features, including voice capability. Instead of the familiar "ringing" sound, our fire alarms now use visual strobes, automated voice announcements, and two different audible tones. These improvements will allow Facilities Management to provide much more precise information and instructions to students and staff in specific buildings when time is of the essence.

Our new systems will add a deeper level of sophistication to Fanshawe's emergency response procedures. We are particularly pleased that we were able to install the upgrades in a cost-effective way by using existing infrastructure. Like all of our security protocols, they will be reviewed frequently and updated as necessary.