A group of teachers has invented a device that could keep teachers and students safe during school shootings.
Teachers would put the device, called The Sleeve, over the closer-arm of the door of the classroom so that the door can't be opened from the outside, according to Fox News.
The idea for The Sleeve came from Daniel Nietzel, President of Fighting Chance Solutions and middle school teacher, who believed current tactics for handling school-shootings weren't useful. Teachers in Nietzel's school district usually tie a rope, cord or belt around the closer-arm to keep it shut, but The Sleeve is designed to lock the door faster than these methods.
"You're essentially tying the most important knot in your life," Nietzel said.
The device, which made its debut in early June, is made of solid carbon steel and is strong enough to withstand 550 pounds of force, Fox News reported. It only takes one second to slip the device on the door, and it is small enough to hide in a drawer to keep it out of the hands of students. Teachers can also display the device by the door.
Fighting Chance Solutions makes the device at Fabricators Plus in Muscatine, Iowa. The Sleeve has gained attention on both a national and international level, with the local Muscatine Community College buying it to use in all of its classrooms.
"Hopefully we'll never use them, hopefully we'll just have to dust them every once in a while and they'll be on the wall," said Bob Allbee, President of the school. "But in case we need them, that's why they're there, again we're just trying to buy some time."
Nietzel said The Sleeve is painted "Safety Red" so kids will understand that the color means it is a safety device, just as they do with fire alarms and fire extinguishers, Fox News reported.
"When students think of this, see this, they think 'ok, safety,' this is not to be messed with unless it's a life or death situation," he said.
The Sleeve is available for $65, and the company provides bulk order discounts and $70 teacher gift certificates, which include shipping. Providing measurements will get the device to customers within three to four weeks.
