BadgeR+ Wearable Panic Buttons provide users with another way to activate up to three distinct alarm types, initiating an Emergency Management alarm to notify staff and automatically notify designated Emergency Response teams, including 911*. Customizable through the Emergency Management system and the 911Cellular Portal, each alarm type is activated with a Single Click, Double Click, or Press-and-Hold action on the red panic button. 

These devices are designed to function exclusively on the designated W-iFi network established during configuration and should be charged every 1–2 months to maintain reliable connectivity.

* 911Cellular configuration required to enable E911 call to First Responding agencies. 

IT Departments play a critical role in the configuration and ongoing management of BadgeR+ devices due to the network requirements and technical configuration involved.  IT teams will need to be aware of the potential impact of any future network changes and be prepared to manage these adjustments to maintain consistent functionality of the devices.

Network Requirements:

• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Network: 911Cellular devices must connect to a 2.4GHz network rather than a 5/6GHz network. The 2.4GHz frequency provides better range and penetration through walls, making it ideal for in-building connectivity. 
   
• Create dedicated district-wide SSID: Assign a dedicated SSID (Wi-Fi network name) for BadgeR+ devices across your whole district. This ensures consistent connectivity at all buildings without interference from other network traffic.
   
• Disable fast routing on network router: This setting causes devices to go dormant and lose connection to the network. To ensure these buttons maintain frequent check-ins and consistent network connectivity, we recommend fast routing be turned off.
  
   

Common Questions: 

• If a button is brought off-campus and the button is clicked, will it activate an alarm/call 911? BadgeR+ devices are configured for a single network. Attempting to use them off the network will result in an error in activating an alarm. 
• How do the wearable panic buttons know where you are in the building when activated? By identifying all Access Points across the network, the Hyper-Accurate Indoor Positioning System (HIPS) locates panic button signals for all panic button products connected to Wi-Fi.
• How are buttons configured? Buttons are configured individually, pairing via Bluetooth and configuring in the 911Cellular portal. Each button requires the primary contact, SSID Name, and SSID Password. 

Prior to configuring the BadgeR+ Wearable Panic Buttons, districts should consider the following to ensure a smooth configuration and deployment process.

Considerations: 

• Identify the Panic Button Device Manager:
  • Each button is programmed to send alerts for low battery levels or when it fails to check in as expected. Assign a designated individual or team to oversee the maintenance and monitoring of all panic buttons
• Decide on Emergency Alarm Types:
  • Determine which types of emergency alarms (e.g., Lockdown, Secure, Intruder) will be triggered via the wearable devices.
  • Each device can support up to three distinct alarm configurations based on the type of button click.
  • Many organizations opt for a single alarm configuration to simplify use and reduce confusion during emergencies.
• Assign Wearables to Appropriate Roles:
  • Decide which staff members will be issued wearables, such as administrators, security personnel, substitutes, traveling teachers, or vendors. 
  • If substitutes are assigned wearables, establish a clear check-in/out policy to ensure proper usage and accountability. 
    • Best Practice: Implement a process where substitutes not only check out the device but also test its battery and functionality daily.
• Develop a Device Charging and Maintenance Policy:
  • Charging: Charge devices every 1-2 months to maintain network connectivity and ensure readiness.
  • Daily Check-In: Perform a connection test every morning to verify the button’s functionality.
    • Press the Battery Button on the device; if the LED light blinks green three times, the device is active.
    • If the green light does not blink, notify the Panic Button Device Manager for troubleshooting.

By addressing these considerations, districts can ensure that wearables are reliably configured, well-maintained, and fully integrated into their emergency management strategy.