![]() ![]() Location-tracking services can be used against you by abusive partners. Devices that rely on data or Wi-Fi signals are useless if you’re out of range. Your phone’s battery can die, or the phone could be stolen. And remember … Even the best product isn't foolproof.We’ve included suggestions below for apps and devices that will contact only your predetermined friends in an emergency, as well as an app that records interactions with police. ![]() For some communities, the police might not offer the best, fastest or most reliable protection. Just to note, the promise of technology should not lull you into letting your guard down. If it's a phone-connected device that requires Bluetooth, make sure it's on. You won't always have time to dig through your bag. If you find yourself on a solo jog, walking home alone at night, or navigating a dark parking lot, have your device in hand. Whatever type of product you're using, it will only work if it's quickly accessible. If you list certain friends or family members as emergency contacts within an app, give your friends a heads-up and make sure they also know what to do when they're alerted-go through a dry run with them too. Just be sure to complete the call and communicate to the service that you're OK.) If the product you’re using promises to connect you to emergency services, give this a dry run. As soon as you unbox the product or install the app, you should go through test runs of setting off alarms, sending your location to a friend, or activating any kind of SOS feature in the product. A complicated new device won’t do you any good if the first time you use it is during a tense or panicked situation. These things might help get you in contact with help quicker, but they haven't been tested for that sort of chaos. ![]() Most of this advice focuses on one-on-one violence, but mass shootings are also a fear that Americans are constantly battling. While we think women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community would benefit from some of these products the most, cisgender straight men are also at risk of violence, even if they don’t hear the same warnings we do. We approached our testing with inclusivity in mind, acknowledging that different groups may have different personal safety needs or feel vulnerable in situations where others don’t. So the methods we highlight here are an alternative to brandishing a weapon. In some localities, it's illegal to carry a concealed weapon like a knife or even pepper spray, and using those things can put you in further danger. None of these products provides a comprehensive solution for every scenario, but they each offer some form of protection. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |