The New Age SOS: Smartphones and Personal Safety

In today’s world, our smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives. They serve as our communication hubs, entertainment devices, and even personal assistants. However, they also play a critical role in personal safety.

But how? Can smartphones really enhance your safety? How can you benefit from the use of safety apps?

Emergency Contacts and Medical Information
One key feature of your smartphone is the ability to store and provide quick access to emergency contact information and critical medical details. Most smartphones offer an “Emergency” or “Medical ID” feature that can be accessed even when your phone is locked. You can enter important details like your blood type, allergies, and emergency contacts. In a crisis, this information can be invaluable to first responders.

Location Services
Your smartphone’s GPS capabilities can be a lifeline in emergencies. By sharing your
location with trusted friends and family members, they can accurately track your whereabouts should you need assistance. Additionally, some mobile-based apps can further this, offering real-time location tracking for added peace of mind.

Emergency Apps and SOS Features
There’s a wealth of apps available that are designed to protect users, many of which come equipped with SOS features. This means at the press of a button emergency contacts or authorities can be alerted with critical information and exact location data, ensuring a swift response to escalating incidents and emergencies.

Geo-Fencing
Geo-fencing allows users to set virtual boundaries or zones on their smartphone’s map. When you enter or leave these predefined areas, your phone can automatically trigger actions or alerts. For example, you can set up a geo-fence around your home or workplace. If your phone detects that you’ve left or entered the area, it can send a notification to your emergency contacts, ensuring they’re aware of your movements.

How do you maximise your smartphone’s role in ensuring your safety should you find yourself in a dangerous or high-risk scenario?

✅ Set up emergency contacts: Ensure that you have the right contacts listed in your emergency contact and medical information.
✅ Practice using emergency features: Familiarise yourself with how to use your smartphone’s emergency features and apps in advance.
✅ Maintain battery life: Keep your phone charged and consider carrying a portable charger or power bank.
✅ Stay connected: Share your location with trusted individuals when you’re heading into unfamiliar areas or situations.
✅ Enable location tracking: Make use of features or third-party apps to track your device’s location in case of theft.
✅ Stay informed: Download weather and disaster alert apps to stay updated on emergencies in your area.

Smartphones and the safety apps that use them have transformed how we approach personal security. If you’d like to learn more, contact us at info@locate.global or book a demo here.