Frederick Schools Eye New Safety Alert System

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- Frederick County public school officials are considering beefing up their safety alert system.

The Frederick News-Post reports that the school board is considering adding beacons made by Beltsville-based Alertus Technologies to the main offices of 64 schools.

The wall-mounted devices use flashing lights, a siren and a scrolling message to deliver information about events such as weather emergencies or threats to students and staff.

The school system currently uses phone calls and emails to send out alerts.

The school system and Frederick County's emergency management agency have applied for a $42,000 grant to help pay for the alarms.

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