In today's world, personal safety is as important as it's ever been. We are seeing gun shootings, domestic violence, group attacks, and even petty crime. We can blame this on many things: drug epidemics, increasing homelessness, mental health, lack of education, and even poor parenting.
But no matter what has caused these issues, we are faced with the consequences: our physical liberties are being threatened and we need to stay safe.
Personal alarm keychains have emerged as a practical and portable solution to enhance personal security, while remaining non-lethal and effective without contact.
Personal safety alarms are compact devices that provide a sense of reassurance and empowerment, enabling individuals to seek help in potentially dangerous situations via loud blaring sirens that can deter the aggressors or solicit help from bystanders.
This article will teach you everything you need to know about how to use a personal alarm including how to carry it, activate it, utilize other features, what to do in a dangerous situation after the alarm has been activated, and how to maintain and store it.
How To Carry Personal Alarms
A personal alarm keychain is designed to be conveniently carried with you at all times. One of the most common ways to carry one is by attaching it to your keychain or house keys. This ensures that the alarm is always within reach and readily accessible.
Alarm keychains can also be easily secured to belt loops, handbags, or backpacks, allowing for quick retrieval and deployment. Another easy storage area for personal alarms is your pocket, purse, or bag, where it can be carried easily and retrieved in a reasonable amount of time.
Some personal alarm keychains come with wearable accessories such as wristbands or lanyards. These options allow you to wear the alarm directly on your wrist or around your neck, keeping it easily accessible and visible. Wearing your alarm keychain is particularly useful for people who prefer a hands-free approach, want to ensure that the alarm is always within sight, or elderly individuals who may have limited access to the alarm if they are in a compromised position like if they have fallen.
Another overlooked area to keep a personal safety alarm is in your car. If you regularly use your car for work, errands, and daily life, having a personal alarm readily available can be priceless. You can store it in the glove compartment, center console, or even in your trunk, and always have it just in case. You may be out late and realize that you want an added layer of protection while at a party or event, and having the alarm in your car can give you the peace of mind you're looking for. Or if you're parked and in your car and encounter a dangerous individual, you can sound the personal alarm to scare him off and attract attention from people nearby.
How To Charge and Power Your Personal Alarm
To ensure the functionality of your personal alarm keychain, it is crucial to keep it adequately powered. Most personal alarm keychains are battery-operated utilizing replaceable batteries such as coin cell batteries (e.g., CR2032) or AAA batteries, which provide a reliable power source for an extended period.
Modern personal alarm keychains come with built-in rechargeable batteries that can be charged using a USB cable or a docking station. Rechargeable batteries offer convenience and cost-effectiveness, as you can simply recharge the device when the battery is low, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements. They are also environmentally-friendly since less battery waste is deposited to landfills or electric junk stations. In general, the vast majority of personal alarms will require either traditional batteries or rechargeable batteries as they are the most reliable and affordable option for powering your device.
Innovative personal alarms have adapted some new energy sources such as solar power and kinetic energy. Personal safety alarms powered by solar energy are equipped with a panel or plate that allows it to harness sunlight for charging. Solar-powered safety alarms are especially useful for people who do a lot of outdoor activities like hiking, running, camping, or traveling, where batteries or electrical outlets might be limited. The downside to solar-charged safety alarms is that it may take longer to charge your device, the total power capacity might be less than a traditional battery-powered alarm, and the cost might be higher.
Kinetic personal alarms are an extremely modern way to charge your safety device. They work by generating power through kinetic energy and movement by methods such as shaking or moving the alarm, or cranking a lever. Kinetic-powered personal alarms would be useful for people who have limited exposure to sunlight but want a more eco-friendly option.
How To Activate Your Personal Alarm
Activating and deactivating a personal alarm keychain is normally a very straightforward process. Most safety devices feature a prominent button that can be easily pressed in times of distress to trigger the alarm. Similarly, to turn off the alarm, you simply press the on/off button again. Some buttons require you to hold the button down or press it multiple times to trigger the alarm as a safety lock and for accidental pressing.
Another activation method is a cord or chain system which is designed to be pulled to sound the alarm. This method makes it harder to accidentally trigger the siren since you need to deliberately grab and yank the chain. To turn off the alarm, simply pull the chain down again.
Two new modern activation methods are mobile apps and voice commands. Mobile app activation works by opening an app on your smart phone and activating the alarm via Bluetooth or wireless connection. This makes activating the alarm convenient, discreet, and possible from a distance. Voice command is a very smart hands-free way to activate your alarm by speaking a specific command or phrase. It allows you to program and set certain predetermined commands, and uses voice recognition technology. If you are restrained or your phone is our of reach, a voice-activated alarm may be useful.
Additional Personal Alarm Features
In addition to an audible siren, personal alarm keychains may offer supplementary features to enhance your personal safety. These include flashing lights, GPS tracking, and in some advanced models, even connectivity with smartphone applications. Flashing lights can help by either attract attention from other bystanders to elicit help or by scaring the predator and discouraging them from continuing the attack. GPS tracking enables your location to be relayed to emergency services or designated contacts to find you and help.
Some personal alarms may even include a built-in whistle, Kubaton or a pepper spray compartment for additional self-defense options. These additional safety features broaden the functionality of personal alarms, providing users with versatile tools to enhance their personal safety and security.
What To Do After You Activate Your Personal Alarm in Dangerous Situations
When you find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation and have activated your personal alarm keychain, it is essential to act swiftly and smartly.
Before even activating the personal alarm, hopefully you have evaluated your environment and the aggressor so you have an idea of your options. If you have properly surveyed the situation before you are attacked, then after you activate your alarm it's time to take action.
When you find yourself in a dangerous situation and have activated your personal alarm, it is essential to take immediate action to ensure your safety. After sounding the alarm, the first step is to attract attention. The loud sound emitted by the personal alarm is intended to draw the attention of people nearby. If you can, supplement the loud siren by shouting, making noises, or drawing attention to yourself. Look for individuals nearby who can provide assistance or call for help. If your device supports additional features like flashing lights, activate them to increase your visibility and aid in your rescue. Remember to stay calm and focused, as panic can hinder your ability to think clearly and take appropriate action.
If your device supports GPS tracking, make sure to activate it if it doesn't automatically turn on when the alarm is triggered.
Next, assess your surroundings and evaluate the available options. Determine if there is a nearby safe location where you can seek refuge, such as a well-lit area, a store, or a populated space. Move towards the safest location while remaining vigilant of your surroundings. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas that may pose further risk.
Simultaneously, try to contact with law enforcement. If you have a smartphone, call the local emergency number or utilize any emergency features available on your device. Many personal alarm devices now offer additional features like built-in panic buttons or connectivity to smartphone apps, which can automatically notify emergency services or designated contacts with your location information. Utilize these features if they are available to you.
If possible, stay on the line with the emergency operator and provide them with crucial details about your situation, such as your location, a description of the threat or assailant, and any other relevant information that can aid in your rescue.
If the danger persists and there is no immediate avenue for escape or assistance, utilize other self-defense measures that may be available to you. Some personal alarms may have additional features like built-in whistles, Kubatons or compartments for pepper spray. Use these options cautiously and only when necessary for self-defense.
Remember to trust your instincts and prioritize your safety above all else. If the opportunity arises to escape the dangerous situation, do so quickly and seek help from nearby individuals or authorities. Do not hesitate to ask for assistance from others who may be able to provide immediate support.
After the incident, report it to the appropriate authorities. Provide them with a detailed account of what occurred and any relevant information that may assist in their investigation. Seek any necessary medical attention and reach out to friends, family, or support networks for emotional support and guidance.
In summary, when in a dangerous situation and after activating your personal alarm, focus on attracting attention, assessing your surroundings, seeking safe locations, contacting emergency services, and utilizing any available self-defense options. Trust your instincts, follow the instructions of emergency operators, and prioritize your safety. By taking these actions, you can increase your chances of escaping a dangerous situation and receiving the necessary help and support.
Personal Alarm Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and reliable operation of your personal alarm keychain, it is important to follow a few maintenance guidelines.
Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight, as these factors can negatively impact its functionality and reduce its lifespan. Regularly inspect the alarm for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Clean the surface with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may obstruct the buttons or speakers. Additionally, store the device in a safe and dry place when not in use, away from sharp objects or other items that could potentially cause damage.
Personal Alarm Keychain Conclusion
Personal alarm keychains serve as invaluable tools in enhancing personal safety and security. By understanding the various aspects of their usage and maintenance, individuals can make the most of these devices in times of need. Whether it is carrying the alarm on your keychain or in your pocket, ensuring an adequate power supply, familiarizing yourself with the activation mechanisms and additional features, or taking proper care of the device, these steps contribute to a safer and more prepared approach to personal security. With its non-lethal and highly effective self defense properties, personal alarms are one of the most affordable and practical options for everyday protection.
Shop our curated collection of fashionable personal alarms today here: Personal Alarm Keychains 
