Personal security alarms are small, lightweight devices you can easily carry around with you. They look innocent at first, but pulling out a hidden pin releases an ear-piercing shriek. In other words, these are like the portable version of home security alarms. Imagine yourself peacefully jogging on the street, when an obscure stranger sneaks up on you, threatening to harm you unless all your possessions are handed over. You pretend to be reaching for your phone, but instead activate the alarm. The loud noise not only startles the attacker, but also draws the attention of nearby people. And if there is something petty thieves dislike the most, it’s standing in the spotlight.
Why a Personal Alarm System?
Personal alarm systems are rapidly increasing in popularity for self-defense purposes, and for a good reason. They are not only small and light, but also designed not to raise suspicion. They look like everyday gadgets hanging from your belt or, or you can simply tuck it away discreetly in a pocket. It also helps you attach them anywhere you like to easily grab during an emergency. Personal alarm systems serve multiple purposes other than deterring criminals. Elderly with health problems might activate it to alert people about a sudden heart attack. If you like hiking or roaming in the nature, you can signal for help with the alarm when lost. And if predators close in for an early lunch or because they want something from you, the loud noise will scare them away.
Recommended Personal Alarm Systems
Despite their relatively basic nature, there is quite a diverse portfolio of personal alarm systems. But which one should you buy? It’s entirely up to you, but we give you some recommendations nonetheless.
Anrui 120 dB SOS Emergency Personal Alarm Keychain
Vigilant 130 dB Personal Rape/Jogger/Student Emergency Alarm
ROBOCOPP SOS Personal Alarm
Safety Apps vs Devices
Some people reject the idea of a personal alarm system, stating that their smartphone can easily produce the same result with a free downloadable app, such as bSafe. This option is indeed valid, as it comes with some useful features, such as automated alarms, notifications to friends and other trusted people, quick calls, GPS breadcrumbs, and fake calls with just a press of a button. However, don’t forget that you won’t have much time to fiddle with your phone when someone holding a knife is facing you. You only have one action, and pulling a pin from a personal alarm is undeniably quicker and raises less suspicion. However, personal safety apps are invaluable when it comes to making emergency calls and leaving marks for your rescuers, thus we recommend using both of them simultaneously.
Panic Pendants and Key Fobs for the Home
Criminal attacks aren’t the only thing threatening your life. Seniors or patients with constant health problems require constant supervision, or at least a mean to call for help immediately. In these cases a panic pendant or a special key fob is far more useful than a personal alarm system. A medical alarm system is the most recommended option, since the help button often comes with fall detection technology and GPS. However, if you already have a home security system set up (like one from Protect America or GetSafe) you can purchase several panic pendants. Pushing the panic button contacts the home security staff through the base unit, who assess the situation and call for help. The SOS keyfob serves a similar purpose. While it’s mainly used to arm and disarm the defenses, there is a dedicated emergency button on it.
Personal Alarm Systems for Elderly
Medical alert systems are also capable of sounding an alarm, while holding a number of other advantages that especially the elderly benefit from. The reason why personal emergency buttons are inferior compared to medical alert systems is that they only raise awareness of your surroundings, without providing bystanders any clue on which proper care to provide. On the other hand, a medical alert service’s monitoring team has the senior’s medical history and contact list on file in case of an emergency. After they push the button on their mobile pendant, the staff can locate and identify the wearer through GPS, and tell the ambulance about the preferred medication and possibly allergies. This way the rescue team arrives prepared. Also, fall detection is a common feature with help buttons, capable of sending automated help signals even if the elderly has fainted.
The Best Home Security Systems of 2024
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Editor's Choice 2024
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