How to report a possible community, school safety threat in 10 minutes

“How to report a possible community, school safety threat in 10 minutes” was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans — and engages with them — about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.

iWatchTexas is a reporting system that allows Texans to report potential threats in their communities and schools.

The reporting system — launched last year after a shooting at Santa Fe High School, which left 10 people dead and 10 others injured — was briefly mentioned during the first meeting of the Texas House Committee on Mass Violence Prevention and Community Safety, which met last week to discuss the implementation of Gov. Greg Abbott’s eight executive orders.

The orders focus on strengthening how law enforcement responds to and can prevent future shootings, mainly by improving how members of the public and law enforcement agencies report worries that a person may be a safety threat.

“Our law enforcement officers often rely on vigilant Texans to help keep communities safe, and this new tool will give everyone the ability to quickly and easily communicate with authorities and help prevent future tragedies,” Abbott said in a press release when iWatchTexas was announced in 2018.

The Texas Tribune repeatedly reached out to the Texas Department of Public Safety but never heard back from department officials. The agency also did not respond to several requests for details about how the reports are analyzed once they’re submitted. Information regarding iWatchTexas was gathered from DPS press releases and a program pamphlet.

Where do I submit?

The reporting system is available as a mobile app or through an online portal. You can also phone in your concerns at 844-643-2251. iWatchTexas has a dedicated section for school-related reports.

How long does it take?

Five to 10 minutes, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

What should be included in a report?

Who: Identify each person involved in the incident, including the victims, suspects and any witnesses. Describe each person in as much detail as possible, including name, age and physical description, along with any other identifiers.

What: Describe the threat or safety concern in detail and include any supporting evidence, like photos, video, web links and audio. Officials suggest citizens report suspicious activity like:

• Strangers asking questions about building security features and procedures
• Unusual chemical smells or vehicles left in no-parking zones at important buildings
• Someone making regarding killing or harming someone
• A briefcase, suitcase, backpack or package left behind
• Someone purchasing supplies that could be used to make bombs or weapons, or purchasing uniforms without having the proper credentials
• Someone taking photographs or videos of security features, such as cameras or checkpoints

When and where: Detail when and where you became aware of the threat or safety concern, and if there is a future date and/or location for it.

Who handles the report once it’s submitted?

Law enforcement analysts review all reports after they’re submitted. They’re then handed off to officials such as school resource officers, district officials or local authorities, who may involve other authorities like mental health care providers or child protective services.