Hawkeye Reporter

The Webster City Police Department is partnering with the Iowa School Safety Bureau in the launch of a new reporting tool that was released this week.

The Safe and Sound Iowa mobile app allows anyone with school safety-related concerns to report them anonymously. “In 80% of school shootings, at least one other person had advanced knowledge what was going to occur and that person with advanced knowledge is most likely going to be another student or a teacher,” according to Special Agent in Charge Don Schnitker of the ISSB. “That is why having a tool like Safe and Sound Iowa available in every school is critical. It gives every student and every teacher and voice in their safety.”

The Safe and Sound Iowa program provides the app free of charge by downloading it from the State’s website, Google Play, or the App Store for your phone’s operating system. The app allows for someone with information to remain anonymous and report information in real time to a live person 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Iowans can make a report online (dps.iowa.gov/SafeandSoundIowa), over the phone (1-800-224-6018) or by using the app.“This program gives anyone who is apprehensive about getting involved, the opportunity to provide valuable information while remaining anonymous. In a crisis situation, information is vital to a successful outcome. I strongly urge the public to be vigilant and report all suspicious activity immediately.” said Chief Mork. “The safety of our students and school staff is paramount and the Webster City Police Department remains alert in ensuring that safety.”

Anyone with information or concerns is encouraged to call the Webster City Police Department at 515-832-9166 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Hamilton County Crimestoppers also offers anonymous reporting by calling the tip line at 515-832-8437, going online to P3TIPS.com  and following the prompts or downloading the P3 app from the App Store or Google Play.

Original source can be found here.