Best Personal Alarm Systems

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

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