For immediate release
oklahoma city – The recently released safety app had an immediate impact within weeks of release, with over 40 tips reported through ProtectOK in just four weeks.
Created by the State of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma School Security Institute, this app allows Oklahomans to easily and anonymously report suspicious activity to law enforcement. The app’s ease of use and anonymity are designed to remove barriers to reporting on activity, a feature that appears to have been effective during its initial launch period.
“ProtectOK was created as a simple, free, and anonymous way for people to bring threats to law enforcement,” said Oklahoma Department of Public Safety Director Tim Tipton. Because we know that’s not the case.” “In just a few weeks, we’ve seen dozens of credible and legitimate tips come through this line, including one about a possible school shooting.” The app is working and helping us better protect our community.”
93% of school shooters plan their attacks in advance, highlighting the need for proactive reporting methods. In four out of five school shootings, at least one person knew of the attacker’s plan but did not report it.
ProtectOK is available for free download from the Apple App Store and Google Play. Since its release, the app has quickly seen a spike in downloads from across the state. ProtectOK is a program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s “If you see something, say something” campaign.