Latest news with #SaferWatch
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
SaferWatch and Clay County Sheriff's Office Launch Crime Tip Rewards Program
New crime prevention initiative offers up to $5,000 for actionable tips submitted through the SaferWatch app or text line that lead to arrests, preventions or the recovery of long-term missing persons. CLAY COUNTY, Fla., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Clay County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) and SaferWatch are proud to announce the launch of the SaferWatch Rewards Program, a new public safety initiative designed to encourage community reporting of criminal activity, prevent acts of mass violence and help to find long-term missing persons. The program offers cash rewards for tips that lead to successful law enforcement and public safety outcomes. Through this partnership, SaferWatch has established an initial $50,000 fund for Clay County, Florida, dedicated to rewarding individuals who submit actionable tips through the SaferWatch platform—either via the SaferWatch app, SaferWatch Text Line or a SaferWatch Web Form. Eligible tips may involve criminal investigations, long-term missing persons, or major incidents that result in a confirmed resolution by Clay County Sheriff's Office. "The Clay County Sheriff's Office has been partners with SaferWatch for over 4 years now. We have over 50,000 SaferWatch users in our community and have already seen several success stories come from it. We couldn't be more grateful to help kick off this rewards program," Clay County Sheriff, Michelle Cook said. "If you see something, say something. This is another avenue to help encourage our community to submit valuable information. One tip can make all the difference." Key details of the program include: Rewards of up to $5,000 per case are available for tips submitted through the SaferWatch platform that results in an arrest or advance a long-term investigation. Tips must be original, credible, and submitted by individuals who are not victims or participants in the incident. The Clay County Sheriff's Office determines the reward amounts based on the case and outcome. "This initiative highlights how technology, community engagement and public safety agencies can come together to create a safer world," said Geno Roefaro, CEO of SaferWatch. "We're honored to support and partner with the Clay County Sheriff's Office in launching this impactful program." To submit a tip, simply download the SaferWatch app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or visit About SaferWatchSaferWatch is a leading public safety platform that empowers individuals, schools, businesses, and law enforcement agencies to communicate, respond, and protect more effectively. Through real-time tip reporting, emergency alerts, panic buttons, and advanced integrations with 911 centers and security systems, SaferWatch helps create safer communities across the country. Learn more at About the Clay County Sheriff's OfficeThe Clay County Sheriff's Office is committed to serving and protecting the residents of Clay County, Florida. With a strong focus on community policing, transparency, and innovation, CCSO works to maintain a safe and secure environment through proactive law enforcement and collaborative partnerships. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE SaferWatch Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
SaferWatch and CRG Unite to Enhance School Safety in Florida Schools with Advanced Mapping Integration
Integration of Critical Response Group's Cutting-Edge Maps into SaferWatch Platform Boosts Emergency Response in Florida Schools and Around the Nation FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SaferWatch and Critical Response Group (CRG) today announced a new partnership and integration of CRG's critical incident mapping technology into the SaferWatch Command Center platform for thousands of schools in the State of Florida. Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Orange County Public Schools, Duval County School District, and Pinellas County School District, some of the State's largest districts, highlight the utilization of SaferWatch and CRG. This collaboration provides 911 dispatchers, school police, and first responders with instant access to detailed digital maps of every school campus – improving situational awareness and communication during emergencies when every second counts. Florida Schools and Florida 911 Centers have implemented this joint solution to aid in compliance with Florida House Bill 301 (2023), to assist local first responders in responding to emergencies in public schools by providing emergency response mapping data. "Our mission at SaferWatch has always been to bridge the information gap between the public and first responders," said Geno Roefaro, CEO of SaferWatch. "Integrating CRG's state-of- the-art maps into the SaferWatch platform takes that mission to the next level. Now, when an emergency alert is triggered on a campus, whether it's an active threat or a medical crisis, our 911 centers, police and first responder partners can immediately see exactly where it's happening and what resources are nearby. This kind of live situational intelligence is a game- changer – it means faster, more precise responses and ultimately safer outcomes for our schools, students and teachers." SaferWatch is a safety and security platform that has been used successfully throughout the State of Florida for the past 5 years which enables real-time communication between schools and law enforcement, including mobile panic alerts, two-way incident reporting, anonymous tips, mass notifications and more. Its 11-in-1 platform has been credited with helping prevent numerous incidents, including at least 13 planned school attacks since its launch. SaferWatch is widely adopted by thousands of schools, municipalities, agencies and 911 centers/PSAPs across the country, providing services to over 6,000 locations and 200+ public safety agencies. Founded by U.S. Special Operations veterans and public safety experts, CRG creates precise, high-resolution maps of building interiors and campuses – known as Collaborative Response Graphics® – that integrate floor plans, aerial imagery, and key emergency assets into one common operating picture. These visual tools allow all responders to "speak the same language" and coordinate effectively during a crisis. CRG is both the national leader in critical incident mapping and the leader in the State of Florida. CRG has mapped more than 2,500 schools in 54 counties across every region of the State, including counties like Escambia, Leon, Alachua, Duval, Brevard, Sarasota, Pinellas, Orange, Collier, St. Johns, and Miami-Dade. "CRG is interested in partnering with school safety companies that have a proven record of integrating their software thoroughly with a school district's public safety partners," said Mike Rodgers, CEO of CRG. "For a school map to be useful to first responders, it needs to be accurate, accessible, and understandable under stress. CRG ensures every school map we create is accurate and understandable, while SaferWatch provides one of the best integrations available to ensure school maps are accessible to front-line first responders." The integration works seamlessly: the moment a 911 call or panic alert is received from a school, the SaferWatch Command Center will pull up CRG's digital map for that campus in real- time, highlighting the precise location of the incident along with critical details. CRG's maps include room numbers, entry/exits, and important safety assets (like AEDs, Stop The Bleed kits, fire extinguishers, cameras and alarm systems), so first responders know exactly where to go and what to expect upon arrival. All of this information is shared across agencies through the SaferWatch platform without any new software required, as CRG's mapping data is compatible with the existing systems used by schools, police and 911 centers. Key features of the integration include: Live Campus Mapping: When an emergency alert or 911 call is triggered at a school, an up-to-date digital map of that campus automatically displays in the SaferWatch Command Center for dispatchers and responders, showing the precise location of the incident within the building or grounds. Room-Level Detail & Points of Interest: CRG's maps provide clearly labeled classrooms, offices, hallways and entry/exit points, as well as icons for important safety assets (e.g. first aid kits, defibrillators, fire alarms, cameras). This granular detail gives first responders pinpoint guidance to navigate complex school facilities. Unified Communication Platform: All stakeholders – 911 operators, local police, school district police, and other first responders – share the same real-time view and updates through the SaferWatch platform. This common operating picture eliminates confusion and ensures everyone is coordinating using identical information. Incident Updates: As an incident unfolds, any new information (e.g. a suspect's movement, areas secured, or students evacuated) can be annotated on the map and instantly disseminated to responders. This helps Incident Commanders adjust tactics on the fly as situations change. This powerful integration is designed to assist in a range of school emergency scenarios. In the case of a critical security threat like an active shooter, police can form a rapid action plan using the digital floorplans to contain the attacker and guide evacuations. For medical emergencies, dispatchers can direct school staff to the nearest lifesaving equipment (such as an AED and Stop The Bleed kit) while paramedics en route visualize exactly where to go upon arrival. By providing instant access to accurate campus maps, the SaferWatch-CRG integration reduces delays and confusion during critical incidents. About SaferWatch SaferWatch is a leading provider of safety and security software, offering a comprehensive platform for real-time incident reporting, mass notifications, and emergency communication. The platform connects citizens, schools, businesses, and public agencies on one network, enabling features such as anonymous tip submission, live video streaming to real-time crime centers, mobile panic alarms, and two-way messaging with law enforcement. SaferWatch has expanded to serve thousands of locations across the U.S., and has been instrumental in averting crimes and enhancing emergency preparedness at schools, public venues, workplaces, and major events. For more information, visit About Critical Response Group (CRG) Critical Response Group, Inc. is the nation's premier provider of critical incident mapping data for public safety. CRG's flagship product, Collaborative Response Graphics® (CRGs), combines gridded overlays with detailed floor plans, true-to-scale aerial imagery, and site-specific labels of key features to produce highly accurate maps usable under stress. These maps have been adopted by first responders and school districts nationwide to enhance coordination and situational awareness during crises. CRG has mapped over 20,000 schools across the country and partnered with numerous agencies to streamline emergency response – from everyday incidents to complex multi-agency operations. For more information on CRG's mission and technology, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE SaferWatch Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
SaferWatch and CRG Unite to Enhance School Safety in Florida Schools with Advanced Mapping Integration
Integration of Critical Response Group's Cutting-Edge Maps into SaferWatch Platform Boosts Emergency Response in Florida Schools and Around the Nation FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SaferWatch and Critical Response Group (CRG) today announced a new partnership and integration of CRG's critical incident mapping technology into the SaferWatch Command Center platform for thousands of schools in the State of Florida. Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Orange County Public Schools, Duval County School District, and Pinellas County School District, some of the State's largest districts, highlight the utilization of SaferWatch and CRG. This collaboration provides 911 dispatchers, school police, and first responders with instant access to detailed digital maps of every school campus – improving situational awareness and communication during emergencies when every second counts. Florida Schools and Florida 911 Centers have implemented this joint solution to aid in compliance with Florida House Bill 301 (2023), to assist local first responders in responding to emergencies in public schools by providing emergency response mapping data. "Our mission at SaferWatch has always been to bridge the information gap between the public and first responders," said Geno Roefaro, CEO of SaferWatch. "Integrating CRG's state-of- the-art maps into the SaferWatch platform takes that mission to the next level. Now, when an emergency alert is triggered on a campus, whether it's an active threat or a medical crisis, our 911 centers, police and first responder partners can immediately see exactly where it's happening and what resources are nearby. This kind of live situational intelligence is a game- changer – it means faster, more precise responses and ultimately safer outcomes for our schools, students and teachers." SaferWatch is a safety and security platform that has been used successfully throughout the State of Florida for the past 5 years which enables real-time communication between schools and law enforcement, including mobile panic alerts, two-way incident reporting, anonymous tips, mass notifications and more. Its 11-in-1 platform has been credited with helping prevent numerous incidents, including at least 13 planned school attacks since its launch. SaferWatch is widely adopted by thousands of schools, municipalities, agencies and 911 centers/PSAPs across the country, providing services to over 6,000 locations and 200+ public safety agencies. Founded by U.S. Special Operations veterans and public safety experts, CRG creates precise, high-resolution maps of building interiors and campuses – known as Collaborative Response Graphics® – that integrate floor plans, aerial imagery, and key emergency assets into one common operating picture. These visual tools allow all responders to "speak the same language" and coordinate effectively during a crisis. CRG is both the national leader in critical incident mapping and the leader in the State of Florida. CRG has mapped more than 2,500 schools in 54 counties across every region of the State, including counties like Escambia, Leon, Alachua, Duval, Brevard, Sarasota, Pinellas, Orange, Collier, St. Johns, and Miami-Dade. "CRG is interested in partnering with school safety companies that have a proven record of integrating their software thoroughly with a school district's public safety partners," said Mike Rodgers, CEO of CRG. "For a school map to be useful to first responders, it needs to be accurate, accessible, and understandable under stress. CRG ensures every school map we create is accurate and understandable, while SaferWatch provides one of the best integrations available to ensure school maps are accessible to front-line first responders." The integration works seamlessly: the moment a 911 call or panic alert is received from a school, the SaferWatch Command Center will pull up CRG's digital map for that campus in real- time, highlighting the precise location of the incident along with critical details. CRG's maps include room numbers, entry/exits, and important safety assets (like AEDs, Stop The Bleed kits, fire extinguishers, cameras and alarm systems), so first responders know exactly where to go and what to expect upon arrival. All of this information is shared across agencies through the SaferWatch platform without any new software required, as CRG's mapping data is compatible with the existing systems used by schools, police and 911 centers. Key features of the integration include: Live Campus Mapping: When an emergency alert or 911 call is triggered at a school, an up-to-date digital map of that campus automatically displays in the SaferWatch Command Center for dispatchers and responders, showing the precise location of the incident within the building or grounds. Room-Level Detail & Points of Interest: CRG's maps provide clearly labeled classrooms, offices, hallways and entry/exit points, as well as icons for important safety assets (e.g. first aid kits, defibrillators, fire alarms, cameras). This granular detail gives first responders pinpoint guidance to navigate complex school facilities. Unified Communication Platform: All stakeholders – 911 operators, local police, school district police, and other first responders – share the same real-time view and updates through the SaferWatch platform. This common operating picture eliminates confusion and ensures everyone is coordinating using identical information. Incident Updates: As an incident unfolds, any new information (e.g. a suspect's movement, areas secured, or students evacuated) can be annotated on the map and instantly disseminated to responders. This helps Incident Commanders adjust tactics on the fly as situations change. This powerful integration is designed to assist in a range of school emergency scenarios. In the case of a critical security threat like an active shooter, police can form a rapid action plan using the digital floorplans to contain the attacker and guide evacuations. For medical emergencies, dispatchers can direct school staff to the nearest lifesaving equipment (such as an AED and Stop The Bleed kit) while paramedics en route visualize exactly where to go upon arrival. By providing instant access to accurate campus maps, the SaferWatch-CRG integration reduces delays and confusion during critical incidents. About SaferWatch SaferWatch is a leading provider of safety and security software, offering a comprehensive platform for real-time incident reporting, mass notifications, and emergency communication. The platform connects citizens, schools, businesses, and public agencies on one network, enabling features such as anonymous tip submission, live video streaming to real-time crime centers, mobile panic alarms, and two-way messaging with law enforcement. SaferWatch has expanded to serve thousands of locations across the U.S., and has been instrumental in averting crimes and enhancing emergency preparedness at schools, public venues, workplaces, and major events. For more information, visit About Critical Response Group (CRG) Critical Response Group, Inc. is the nation's premier provider of critical incident mapping data for public safety. CRG's flagship product, Collaborative Response Graphics® (CRGs), combines gridded overlays with detailed floor plans, true-to-scale aerial imagery, and site-specific labels of key features to produce highly accurate maps usable under stress. These maps have been adopted by first responders and school districts nationwide to enhance coordination and situational awareness during crises. CRG has mapped over 20,000 schools across the country and partnered with numerous agencies to streamline emergency response – from everyday incidents to complex multi-agency operations. For more information on CRG's mission and technology, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE SaferWatch Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Hamilton Spectator
07-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hamilton Spectator
Genetec and SaferWatch bring real-time vehicle intelligence to public safety agencies
MONTRÉAL, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Genetec Inc. ('Genetec'), the global leader in enterprise physical security software, today announced the integration of AutoVu Cloudrunner™, its vehicle-centric investigation system (VCIS), with the SaferWatch real-time alerting and reporting platform. Initially developed for the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement, the integration brings together Cloudrunner's vehicle search capabilities and SaferWatch's live communication tools into a single platform, enhancing how public safety agencies and communities coordinate in real time during incidents involving vehicles of interest. Pioneering real-time collaboration in Hawaii The initiative was born out of the Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement's pressing need to strengthen situational awareness and inter-agency communication. SaferWatch was already being used widely throughout the state, providing secure, real-time communications between citizens, public institutions, and law enforcement. Their vision was to combine real-time technologies to enhance public safety, not only to respond more quickly to incidents, but also to proactively identify potential threats before they escalate. 'This partnership represents a major step forward in how we protect our communities across Hawaii,' said Mike Lambert, Director, Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement. 'By integrating Genetec advanced license plate recognition technology with the SaferWatch real-time alert platform, we're giving our officers and public safety partners the tools to act faster, smarter, and with greater precision. This technology helps us stay one step ahead while keeping transparency and community trust at the forefront.' Improving situational awareness with real-time data Cloudrunner automatically and accurately captures license plate information, vehicle characteristics (color, type, make, and model), and driving behaviors, regardless of time of day or weather conditions. With this data now available within SaferWatch, law enforcement agencies can receive instant alerts when a vehicle on a hotlist is detected. These alerts are automatically pushed to 911 dispatchers, investigators, and authorized personnel through the SaferWatch alerting ecosystem. In addition to the license plate information, each alert can include critical context, such as case reports or related vehicle intelligence—enabling faster, more informed decision-making. Beyond law enforcement The integration of AutoVu Cloudrunner with SaferWatch also extends meaningful new capabilities beyond law enforcement, benefiting educators, healthcare administrators, and public venue operators who already use SaferWatch to monitor potential threats. With Cloudrunner's vehicle intelligence now embedded in the platform, users can submit tips about suspicious vehicles directly through the app. If a license plate is deemed actionable, it can be added to a hotlist—triggering real-time alerts the moment the vehicle is detected by a Cloudrunner camera. This streamlined flow of information reduces response times and ensures that key stakeholders are aligned and ready to act. The integration also empowers community members to play an active role in public safety. Through the SaferWatch app, citizens can report sightings or suspicious activity, contributing critical information that could lead to identifying vehicles or individuals of interest. In high-priority scenarios—such as when a most-wanted vehicle is spotted nearby—law enforcement can instantly issue mass notifications to users in surrounding areas, helping alert the public to potential danger and guiding coordinated response efforts. 'Time and collaboration are critical when addressing public safety threats,' said Larry Legere, Commercial Director, AutoVu Cloudrunner at Genetec Inc. 'This integration streamlines how agencies share vehicle intelligence, enabling faster coordination across jurisdictions and more effective community engagement.' The integration is now available to Cloudrunner and SaferWatch customers across North America. The SaferWatch app remains free for citizens to download and use for submitting tips, but organizations need an active account on each service to unlock the full benefits of the combined solution. For more information about Genetec, visit . About Genetec Genetec Inc. is a global technology company that has been transforming the physical security industry for over 25 years. The company's portfolio of solutions enables enterprises, governments, and communities around the world to secure people and assets while improving operational efficiency and respecting individual privacy. Genetec delivers the world's leading products for video management, access control, and ALPR, all built on an open architecture and designed with cybersecurity at their core. The company's portfolio also includes intrusion detection, intercom, and digital evidence management solutions. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Genetec serves its 42,500+ customers via an extensive network of accredited channel partners and consultants in over 159 countries. For more information about Genetec, visit: © Genetec Inc., 2025. Genetec™, AutoVu Cloudrunner™ and the Genetec logo are trademarks of Genetec Inc. and may be registered or pending registration in several jurisdictions. Other trademarks used in this document may be trademarks of the manufacturers or vendors of the respective product. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
New York Post
06-05-2025
- Business
- New York Post
Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has elite executives ramping up security
SaferWatch, a security platform designed to enhance emergency response across public and private institutions, has seen a surge in inquiries from Fortune 500 companies looking to boost protection for their C-suite executives and families. The heightened interest started almost immediately after UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was gunned down in New York City in December. These companies are now looking to equip their executives and families with the SaferWatch LTE Panic Button, a mobile-enabled alert system that provides immediate access to emergency assistance. 'All of these companies are waking up, saying, 'How do we protect our executives? How do we protect their families? How do we protect our key people that really run this operation?'' Geno Roefaro, CEO of SaferWatch, told Fox Business. There has also been an increase in requests from affluent customers looking to increase protection for their families. For example, they are looking to equip their children heading off to college, according to Roefaro. Roefaro coined it the 'Luigi effect.' He is referring to Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old Ivy League graduate accused of shooting Thompson on Dec. 4, 2024, outside a Hilton hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Last month, Mangione pleaded not guilty to federal charges related to the killing of Thompson. The trial is expected to begin in 2026. Executives can be well protected within their offices, so companies are increasingly focusing on protecting them when they travel around the globe, according to Roefaro. 3 SaferWatch's LTE Panic Button has gained heightened interest recently from Fortune 500 companies. SaferWatch 'One of the biggest demands that we get is when, how do we protect our executives as they leave the office?' Roefaro said, noting that assigning physical security guards to every executive and their family members is impractical and often expensive. For smaller businesses, it may not even be a feasible option, he added. Roefaro co-founded SaferWatch with the company's current vice president of product, Shannon Donev, after the 2016 Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida. The incident sparked a mission to develop faster safety solutions for both the public and private sectors. To do that, they created a discrete device to help executives, other employees and their families get help without drawing any attention. 'I think we all have that innate feeling of someone following us, someone behind us, right?' Roefaro said, adding that if Thompson had that concern he could have used a panic alarm, which would have alerted the security team and allowed them to 'potentially intervene.' 3 Businesses such as SaferWatch have seen an explosion in inquiries after the murder of Brian Thompson. SaferWatch Pressing the button connects the user to either a 24/7 resource center or directly to 911, depending on the service that the company or school selects, for instance. While direct 911 access is a premium option, costing at minimum $50,000 to $100,000 per year, about 70% of customers choose it, according to Roefaro. This technology eliminates the need for basic questions when someone calls 911, such as the caller's name, location or nature of the emergency, according to SaferWatch's website. It also prevents delays that are caused by misrouting to the wrong 911 center. In school settings, for instance, once a 911 center is alerted, onsite personnel, including officers, security teams, principals and staff, are immediately notified. While the service comes at a hefty price, Roefaro said the goal is to eventually get the product into the hands of everyday citizens, not just executives and wealthier individuals. 3 Companies are looking to protect both executives and their families. Obtained by NY Post The company is partnering with more than 6,000 public and private organizations, from schools and major corporations to small businesses, across 31 states. In New York City, for example, bodegas have even installed SaferWatch panic alarms beneath their registers, allowing staff to trigger silent alerts in an emergency without drawing any attention. Aside from the panic buttons and 24/7 operations center, the company employs nearly 20 retired law enforcement executives to provide strategic support. The platform also features an anonymous tip reporting system through its mobile app. When users report suspicious activity, the system automatically shares their location and profile with administrators and law enforcement to accelerate response, according to its website.
