The SafeVoice school hotline is now fully operational in all Nevada schools.
SafeVoice is a tool to provide students and others a confidential way to report threats of violence and friends at risk of suicide, self-harm, drugs and other problems, according to Christy McGill of the Nevada Department of Education.
She said students can access SafeVoice on themselves as well if they need help. They can either call 833-216-SAFE or visit www.safevoice.org. They can also download the SafeVoice app on their phone.
The call center is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Department of Public Safety Director Jim Wright said the program has received more than 2,500 tips and he said he’s convinced the program has helped save lives.
SafeVoice was created by the late state Senator Debbie Smith and enacted in legislation sponsored by Senator Heidi Gansert.
The system is managed by the DPS Investigations Division. The SafeVoice Communications Center is aligned with the Nevada Threat Analysis Center.
Wright said when a call comes in, it’s forwarded to the school team consisting of an administrator, counselor and/or a social worker who, together, determine how best to respond.
“SafeVoice is increasing the ability of students and their parents to bring concerns to light and for them to receive a rapid and effective response,” said Superintendent of Education Steve Canavero.
