1. UVU Panic Alarm Systems
User Guide
Office of the FIre Marshal

2. What is a panic alarm?
A panic alarm is also known as a duress alarm. Panic alarms historically have been used mainly in banks, convenience stores, and correctional facilities. Over the years panic alarms began to be more common in all types of business including medical and educational settings.
Utah Valley University currently has over 180 panic alarms located throughout the campus.
Office of the FIre Marshal

3. What do the panic alarms look like and where can I find them?
The panic alarms used at UVU come with either one or two buttons. Typically they are attached under a desk or can be worn on a person.
Office of the FIre Marshal

4. How do I use the panic alarm?
The panic alarm is activated by firmly pressing the button on the device for 1-2 seconds and then release the button. If the device has two buttons both buttons must be pressed at the same time.
Once the device has been activated it will send a signal to the UVU Police dispatch center indicating the location and that the button has been activated.
The panic buttons automatically reset within two seconds of each activation.
Office of the FIre Marshal

5. What happens when the panic alarm is activated?
The alarm typically is received in the police department within 1 minute. During a stressful situation 1 minute can seem more like 20 minutes.
Once the dispatcher receives the alarm police officers are dispatched immediately to the location.
The dispatcher may attempt to call the phone extension associated with the panic alarm to verify the alarm.
Even if there is a request to cancel the alarm Officers will continue to respond.
Office of the FIre Marshal

6. When should I use the panic alarm?
Panic alarms are in place for any time you feel a situation has developed in which a police presence is needed.
In emergencies we always recommend calling 911 as the response is quicker and more timely information can be passed on to responding emergency personnel.
However, there are times when one feels that picking up a phone and dialing 911 may put them in greater risk. The panic alarm can be activated discreetly but increases the response time.
Office of the FIre Marshal

7. Can I test the panic alarm?
The panic alarms self test every 5 hours.
The entire system is audited and tested every 6 months by the Office of the Fire Marshal.
If you have a question or concern and feel the button needs to be tested please contact the Office of the Fire Marshal for scheduling a test.
Office of the FIre Marshal

8. Who is responsible for the maintenance?
Each department that utilizes the panic alarm system(s) is responsible for their own maintenance.
The system automatically reports maintenance issues to the Office of the Fire Marshal.
When a issue is identified a is sent out to the responsible department to resolve the issue with further instructions. Typically this consists of replacing batteries that be purchased online or through local battery stores.
Office of the FIre Marshal

9. I am moving offices can I take the panic alarm with me?
Panic alarms are typically associated to specific offices and require programming and testing.
Panic alarms are specific to the area in which they are assigned and usually can be moved within a small area. They cannot be relocated to another building.
Please contact the Office of the Fire Marshal prior to any relocation of panic alarms.
Office of the FIre Marshal

10. Are there fees associated with panic alarms?
Every department using a panic alarm system is responsible for costs associated with installation, programming and maintenance.
The Office of the Fire Marshal has imposed a yearly monitoring fee of $12 per panic button. This fee is used to maintain the monitoring equipment in the dispatch center. (effective 7/1/2018)
Office of the FIre Marshal

11. Questions or Concerns?
Please direct questions or concerns to the Office of the Fire Marshal.
Justin Sprague, UVU Fire Marshal
(801)
Office of the FIre Marshal