From a young age, women are taught to be vigilant and take precautions to protect themselves from potential harm. Everyday activities such as living alone, jogging, going on dates, and even just leaving the house can carry risks. In response to these concerns, women often share safety tips and advice with each other, emphasizing the importance of not going places alone, keeping drinks attended, and checking for potential threats like someone hiding in the backseat of their car.
To safeguard themselves, WIRED staffers and their friends have adopted a few common practices. These include walking with keys gripped between their fingers, carrying pepper spray on their keychains, or staying on the phone with a friend until they feel safe. However, it’s not always a stranger lurking in the shadows who poses the greatest danger. Many times, it’s the people we know and love who perpetrate the most harm in our lives.
Cognizant of these risks, the Gear team at WIRED wondered if there was a way for the technology we already carry with us, such as smartphones and smartwatches, to provide assistance and enhance personal safety. With this question in mind, they embarked on a comprehensive testing process, evaluating built-in smartphone functions, third-party apps, internet-connected jewelry, and other personal safety devices designed to connect users with help when they need it.
During testing, the team activated panic buttons, engaged with responders, and participated in training exercises provided by the companies. Most of the products they explored allow users to signal distress without having to speak to anyone directly, eliminating the need to dial a number or voice concerns aloud when it may not be safe to do so.
While none of the products tested offered a comprehensive solution for every scenario, each of them provided some form of protection. In certain areas, it may be illegal to carry concealed weapons like knives or pepper spray, and using these items can potentially escalate the danger. Therefore, the methods highlighted in this guide serve as alternatives to brandishing a weapon.
It’s crucial to approach personal safety testing with inclusivity in mind, acknowledging that different groups may face distinct safety concerns and vulnerabilities. While women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community generally face heightened risks, cisgender straight men are also susceptible to violence, even if they don’t always receive the same warnings. While the advice provided in this guide primarily focuses on one-on-one violence, it’s essential to remember that mass shootings are a continuous fear in America. While the suggested safety measures may expedite contact with help during emergencies, they haven’t specifically been tested for chaotic situations like mass shootings.
To summarize the key points, the guide advises readers to download the free Noonlight app, explore the safety features already available on their phones and smartwatches, and learn how to effectively utilize the chosen safety method before an emergency occurs. Additionally, readers are encouraged to explore the rest of the guide to discover other options they may not have considered.
As of July 2023, the guide has been updated to include two new apps, SafeUP and Just N’ Case, as well as the Plegium Smart Emergency Button. Furthermore, the guide mentions upcoming information about Apple’s iOS 17 Check-In feature.
In conclusion, personal safety remains a pressing concern for individuals of all genders and backgrounds. By harnessing the power of technology and implementing precautionary measures, we can take proactive steps towards enhancing our safety and protecting ourselves from potential harm.
