Cayuga County used real-time emergency support to keep poll workers safe

Cayuga County enhanced Election Day safety by implementing SaferWatch LTE panic buttons at every polling site, providing real-time emergency support for poll workers. The initiative, led by the Cayuga County Board of Elections, Information Technology Department, and Sheriff’s Office, linked these advanced devices directly to local 911 centers to ensure immediate access to emergency services if needed.

“Keeping everyone safe on Election Day is our top priority, and we want people to feel at ease when they come out to vote,” said Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck. “By implementing SaferWatch panic buttons at our polling locations, we took proactive measures for our community and provided reassurance to election staff that they were protected and supported.”

The panic button system integrates with local emergency communication networks, providing instant alerts to law enforcement, enhancing security, and supporting a swift response to any potential incidents. SaferWatch CEO Geno Roefaro emphasized the importance of safety in elections, noting that Cayuga County is leading statewide efforts to make polling locations more secure for both voters and staff.

“This election, and all elections, shouldn’t just be free and fair—they should also be safe,” Roefaro said. “Cayuga County is setting a new standard for Election Day security across New York.”

By adopting SaferWatch’s technology, Cayuga County is pioneering Election Day safety protocols, underscoring the importance of community-centered security measures. The collaboration highlights how technology can protect public spaces and strengthen the efforts of law enforcement and emergency personnel.