Go To Green System Guides Occupants to Safety Using Lights
The new Go To Green security system uses colored lights to direct people to safe evacuation routes during emergencies, including school shootings.
Go To Green, a system developed by founder Ernie Williams, aims to guide building occupants to safety during emergencies using a visual light system. Designed with school shootings in mind, the technology employs ceiling-mounted LED arrays and sensors to indicate safe paths and hazardous areas.
The system activates upon detecting threats like gunshots or fires. Green lights signal safe evacuation routes, while red lights indicate areas to avoid. Flashing red and blue lights pinpoint the location of the danger. Williams, a former Marine, stated the system's design leverages the familiarity of traffic light signals.
According to Williams, the system's sensors can track moving threats in real-time, dynamically adjusting evacuation guidance. "The pathways may change," he explained, referring to a scenario where a threat moves within a building.
Currently installed in 20 schools, primarily in Texas, the system has also been used to direct occupants to shelter during tornado events. The company has received backing from O'Leary Ventures.
While Go To Green offers a visual aid for emergencies, experts like Amanda Klinger of The Educator's School Safety Network emphasize that technology alone is insufficient. She noted the importance of complementary training and prevention strategies, stating that systems like Go To Green are a response tool, not a deterrent.