The SafeUT app is a crisis chat and tip line that provides real-time crisis assistance for students, parents, and educators. (SafeUT)
RIVERTON, Utah –The SafeUT app has over 2,400 active users, proving to be an effective resource for many.
Through the app, users submitted 801 potential school threat tips between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, according to Twitter.
Director of Student Services Travis Hamblin and Wellness Specialist Angi Rasmussen joined Dave Noriega and Debbie Dujanovic, also known as D2, on a recent episode to discuss how Riverton High School utilizes the app.
Rasmussen begins the conversation with Dave and Dujanovic by explaining the anonymity of the app.
“They [app users] can go on there and seek immediate assistance,” she said.
In situations where someone may be concerned for a friend’s safety, and makes a report, Rasmussen assures that the user can remain completely anonymous.
“Then they don’t have to show up in the counseling office and report this in person. They can go on there [the app] report it, give all the information without being seen. And then all that information can be transferred to the school who then picks it up and can see the conversation between the crisis worker and whoever reported it,” she explains.
Hamblin adds to the conversation by saying situations like the one explained by Rasmussen are a part of student prevention efforts.
In other words, Hamblin says that the SafeUT app can help provide vital information to respond to students’ needs.
Hamblin also said that prevention efforts include destigmatizing negative components of mental health.
“I think we’re doing a really great job of saying look there’s a lot of help for you and we’re not here to judge, we’re just here to help,” he told Dave and Dujanovic. “And part of that also is helping our patrons understand we have these valuable resources in the building because we not only have people that are qualified in our buildings we’ve partnered with all the different therapy groups in our districts as well to connect our parents to outside resources.”
The question arises, what happens exactly when a tip is submitted? What about tips over the weekend?
“Through that app, not only are local resources activated, but they also contact schools. So, once the school knows, then they will contact the parents, the student, and make sure things are ok,” Hamblin responds.
Rasmussen closes the conversation by reassuring parents that when appropriate personnel intervenes, it’s from the standpoint of wanting to help and offer support.