A personal alarm can give you peace of mind when travelling, or at home. But not everyone knows how to use a personal alarm or why they need one.
The personal alarm itself is small and discreet. There’s a super loud 120 decibel alarm that sounds when the alarm is activated. It will scare off attackers or intruders and alert people nearby.
Wondering how to use a personal alarm? Let’s find out.
How to use a personal alarm
In this picture, you can see that the cord is attached to a pin that goes into the body of the alarm. When that pin is removed the alarm is set off. It’s a simple mechanism that is easy to use.
So if you get into difficulty and need to call for help you just pull the cord and the pin pops out, sounding the alarm. You can hold the body of the alarm in one hand and pull the pin with the other. If the alarm is attached to something using the keyring you can just pull the cord.
The personal alarm is reusable too. You can put the pin back in and reset it when testing, or in case of a false alarm, or to use again.
Our personal alarm comes with a keyring attachment. It doesn’t have to go on your keys though! You can use the keyring to add the alarm to your purse or wallet, attach it inside your bag or to a bag strap. This is great for keeping it close by but secure. An advantage of attaching the alarm is that you only need one hand to pull the pin out and set it off.
Because the alarm is reusable you can test it out and see what feels good for you. You should probably warn people nearby, to save them coming running. And cover your ears, it’s going to get loud.
How to use a personal alarm in your room
Because the alarm works by the pin being pulled you can use it to secure your accommodation too. Attach one side to the door frame or window frame, and the other to the door or window. Then if the door or window is opened, the alarm will be pulled apart, the pin will come out and the alarm will sound.
Or you can use the specially-designed door stop alarm that wedges under the door.
Personal alarms aren’t just about travelling – you can use a personal alarm at home for extra security. They are useful for the elderly in case of falls. Students or partygoers walking in isolated streets or late at night risk sexual assault or mugging. Carrying a personal alarm gives you that extra sense of security. It can even prevent attacks and de-escalate situations. If you show you have an alarm or threaten to set it off you can send intruders or attackers running.
So there are some tips on how to use a personal alarm to stay confident and safe, on your travels or back home.