Personal Safety Devices

Personal safety devices are non-lethal tools that allow you to instantly alert friends and family with a push of a button. They're typically small enough to be held in hand, clipped onto a backpack or key ring, or even slid into an item of clothing like a bra or waistband.

1. Long Battery Life





The best personal safety devices will have a long battery life, so they're always ready to activate. This means that they're a convenient way to get help, and you can count on the device to keep working no matter what happens.

Most personal alarms that you can buy on the market have a siren to attract attention, and they're designed to be easy to use. The key thing to look for is how loud the alarm is - a good personal alarm should have at least 120 decibels. Also, make sure that the device is rechargeable and has a long battery life.

There are many different types of personal safety devices, from ones that do physical harm like tasers and pepper spray to those that can alert authorities when you're in danger. Some are even able to track your location and warn others about your situation if needed.

One example of this is the Garmin Venu 2S, which has a feature that can detect if you fall down and then automatically alert your friends and family and send them your GPS location. WIRED senior associate editor Adrienne So tried it out and didn't manage to trigger the incident detection when she faked a fall, but says that she generally feels safer on her runs thanks to this feature.

2. GPS Tracking

Whether you're a woman who goes out alone at night or you simply want to feel safer when you're hiking in the mountains, personal safety devices are available to help you keep safe. From pepper spray and stun guns to GPS-enabled wearables, these devices allow you to signal for help while ensuring that emergency contacts have your location information at their fingertips.

A popular choice for those who prefer not to carry a firearm, the VIPERTEK VTS-195 stun gun uses a high-voltage shock to incapacitate attackers and doubles as a flashlight to illuminate surroundings at night. This device is also rechargeable, saving you money on replacement batteries.

GPS tracking is another useful tool that can be found in many personal safety devices, especially those designed for business use. This technology works by pinging satellites to identify a specific point's location using latitude and longitude coordinates. This information can then be transmitted to a computer or smartphone via a wireless network.

Lone worker apps like Rescu are a great way to stay connected to your emergency contacts and can be used independently of the 911 system, eliminating common risks associated with it, such as dropped calls, delays and rerouting. These apps also enable users to share their location in real time, send duress alerts, and track overtime and other key performance indicators. Some devices can also connect with handheld satellite devices that enable lone workers to activate panic alarms and send 1:1 messages.

3. Waterproof

If you're looking for a personal safety device to use during outdoor activities, consider one with waterproof capabilities. This will allow you to wear the device in wet environments, such as showers or around water, without risking your ability to use it.

A personal alarm is a great way to deter potential attackers or signal for help in an emergency. It can also be used to scare off animals or draw attention to a dangerous situation. Some personal alarms even double as whistles, allowing you to make a loud noise that can be heard from a distance.

Choosing a personal alarm with an automatic fall detection feature can be useful for people who live alone or are at a higher risk of falling. This feature will automatically notify a medical response center of your fall so they can send assistance as quickly as possible.

Some personal alarms are small enough to be worn as a keychain. They can easily be hidden in your purse or pocket to ensure that you are always ready to call for help if needed. This trendy-looking alarm from Meemoo is a great example. It comes in a variety of metallic colors and can be concealed in the palm of your hand to avoid being noticed by potential attackers. It can also function as a flashlight, making it a practical choice for runners or hikers.

4. Concealable

If an attacker approaches you, the sound of a personal safety alarm can send them running. Many alarms are designed to be concealable so they can be used without drawing attention to yourself.

For example, the Vipertek SOS Alarm can be hidden inside your pocket or amongst your keys and emits a loud, high-quality noise of up to 140 dB when activated. This noise is loud enough to scare away any would-be attackers and will also alert passersby that you’re in danger. Some personal safety devices even double as flashlights, so they’re ideal for nighttime walks or jogs.

There are also wearable personal safety devices that can act as panic buttons to help you get through a medical emergency. The iIVY necklace or bracelet can be pressed to instantly send your GNSS location and an SOS audio message to pre-designated contacts (and in some cases the authorities).

While we hope that you’ll never need to use your self-defense gear, it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. These personal safety gadgets can be a lifesaver if you’re attacked on your way home from work or during your early morning jog across town. They’re also a great accessory for anyone who wants to feel more confident when out and about. And the best part is, they’re easy to take with you wherever you go.