We often focus on security as it relates to accessing a certain building or premises using an access control credential—such as a badge, or keypad. But how do you keep people safe and secure in an openly accessible environment? Whether it’s walking in an empty parking garage at night, or in the middle of a raucous crowd at an outdoor event, emergency towers are an essential layer of security for many settings. Strategic placement of emergency towers and wall boxes can deter crime in areas that are harder to monitor and be a visual indicator that assistance is easy to reach. Here are four reasons to consider adding emergency towers as part of your exterior security.
Easy to spot
Popular in areas such as campuses, parking lots, malls, or courtyards, emergency towers can be accessed 24/7 and are easy to locate with its lit beacon.. This means towers will remain visible for long distances, even in the dark. When the emergency button is pushed, the tower light flashes to alert others and makes it easier for emergency services to locate the party in need.
Direct, reliable communication
Emergency towers provide valuable and reliable two-way communication capabilities for individuals traveling across a college campus or large parking lot. In certain geographic areas or in large concrete structures, cell phone coverage can be spotty, whereas a hardwired emergency intercom tower ensures consistent, reliable communication with authorities in the event of an emergency.
A cost effective communication tool
Intercom towers, with a one-piece design, are easier and more cost-effective to ship and install than bulkier, heavy towers that are cumbersome to install. Because these aluminum towers are one piece, they only require one part number when ordering. Many towers and intercoms can integrate with key platforms including access control, VMS, NVR, paging, and network cameras.
ADA compliance
Just like access into a building needs to be accessible to all individuals, regardless of abilities, so to do emergency communication towers. Emergency towers come in multiple shapes and sizes, but key among them is ensuring that an emergency button is easy to reach for someone walking or sitting in a wheelchair. Intercom systems that now include two-way video and integrate with t-coil technologies, ensure enhanced communication for those who are hard of hearing and wear compatible hearing aids.
As campus settings—including educational institutions—are prone to unexpected events, emergency towers can help protect students and faculty during emergencies. As the school year begins to ramp up and these settings become more populated, compact aluminum towers are a cost-effective and useful addition to an existing security portfolio.
