The Best Personal Safety Alarms and Gadgets for Every Situation
Not everyone feels at ease with self-defense tools that rely on physical confrontation, and I'm no exception. For many, myself included, personal safety alarms offer a straightforward alternative. These devices are especially helpful for families, whether it's a child signaling for help after getting separated in a crowded space or a parent needing a quick way to alert others in an emergency. But personal safety alarms are useful for everyone, from solo joggers to commuters and hitchhikers.
In this guide, I've rounded up some of the best personal safety alarms that I and WIRED staffers have tested. We also have a guide for the Best Personal Safety Apps, as well as a guide for apps that help people with disabilities travel more easily.
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What Is a Personal Safety Alarm?
A personal safety alarm is a portable device designed to alert others if you're in danger. Think of it as a handheld, wearable security system. When activated, it emits a loud, often piercing, siren to draw attention from nearby people and potentially deter the assailant. Most panic alarms blast at least 120 decibels, which is comparable to a thunderclap or a jet taking off, but volumes can vary. Many models also feature an LED flashlight, and some even go a step further by sending emergency alerts to preset contacts or 24/7 monitoring services.
TSA-friendly and allowed in places where other self-defense tools (like pepper spray) might be prohibited, personal security alarms can also offer peace of mind. Unlike your smartphones, they're are built for simplicity and speed in urgent moments; no need to unlock a device or fumble with a safety app. This makes them ideal for college students, children, and seniors who need safer alternatives to traditional self-defense tools.
Other Reasons to Consider a Personal Alarm
If you're hiking or camping in areas with wildlife, a loud alarm might help scare off dangerous animals if they wander too close. While it's no guarantee—and it's always best to be educated on avoidance techniques when exploring the great outdoors—a sudden sound can sometimes discourage a rogue raccoon or coyote from venturing closer.
Some safety alarms are equipped with features that connect you to emergency responders, which can be invaluable for medical emergencies. Alternatively, a loud siren can grab the attention of someone who can call 911 on your behalf if you're not able to.
A Note on Pepper Sprays and Gels
Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states, but be sure to read your specific state's fine print before you purchase. Most states only allow adults 18 and older to buy and carry, but additional restrictions may apply. Wisconsin and California, for example, regulate both the size of the canister and the concentration of oleoresin capsicum (OC) it can contain. In Massachusetts and New York, you can purchase pepper spray only from a licensed in-state pharmacist, so online shopping is off the table.
It's also important to note that pepper spray (and gel) is classified as a weapon in some jurisdictions, meaning anyone with prior convictions is prohibited from carrying it altogether. Pepper spray is also often banned in certain spaces, including but not limited to government buildings, schools, and commercial flights. Ignoring local laws could lead to fines and/or criminal charges, so double-check the rules in your place of residence before you swipe that credit card.
How We Tested
We personally triggered every alarm and, when applicable, spoke to the emergency responders. Here's what we evalsuated:
- Portability: We looked at the size and weight of each device, prioritizing discreet devices that are easy to carry.
- Sound: Every alarm we chose produces between 120 and 140 decibels—loud enough to startle would-be assailants and alert bystanders in a crisis.
- Price: We factored in upfront costs and recurring expenses, such as subscription fees or replacement batteries. We also tested battery life.
- Ease of Use: Safety alarms should be simple to operate in high-stress situations. We also assessed the user experience during setup and the accessibility of customer support.
- The Extras: We took stock of included features and tested how well they performed compared to its competitors. Some alarms included these extras at no additional charge, while other companies required monetary upgrades; we kept this in mind.
Other Helpful Gadgets
Many self-defense instructors suggest owning a flashlight as a personal safety tool as well. Besides helping you spot potential threats in the dark, the right flashlight can disorient an attacker in seconds, and hopefully long enough to help you escape. Unlike mace, you haven't hurt anyone, so if it was just a lost stranger asking for directions, no harm done.
Commerce director Martin Cizmar recommends the Fenix 35ER in WIRED's Best Flashlights and Headlamps guide. It's compact enough to throw in a bag without weighing you down yet durable enough to double as a self-defense weapon if all else fails. For a more affordable pick, writer Louryn Strampe nominates the 900-lumen Anker Rechargeable Bolder ($34), which even has a strobe function. It's a lot smaller but will still pack a harder punch than a lone fist.
Final Tips and Advice
- Consider your lifestyle. Think about where and how you'll use the siren alarm. A keychain alarm might be ideal for city commutes, but a wearable model is probably a better option for outdoor activities.
- Test it first. Before heading out, pull the alarm to ensure it sounds as intended. If it includes an emergency dispatch feature, test that too—be sure to notify the responder during the call that this is a test. Also, regularly check the battery.
- Stay aware. Personal alarms are tools, not shields, and they're most effective when paired with situational awareness. When outside, stay alert to potential risks and trust your instincts.
- Have a plan. An alarm should be one part of a larger safety strategy. Plan through what you'll do after activating it: identify space spaces to run to and know who to call for help.