HELP! Apps to Stay Safe

There really is an app for everything. In a world where we rely on our smartphones more than ever to assist in everything from basic to complex tasks, it should come as no surprise that there are a plethora of safety apps available to help protect you when you’re out and about. Of course, these apps can’t help you if you don’t download them in advance and learn how to use them so you’re ready if the need arises. Hopefully, it never will, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re preparing for absolutely anything.

Who Needs Them

In all honesty, anyone can benefit from using safety apps. If you want to take a more proactive approach to your security or supplement other measures you’ve taken, such as carrying pepper spray or taking self-defense classes, you can quickly add an app or two to your smartphone and enjoy an added layer of protection.

Some people, in particular, may benefit from safety apps. If you send your little ones off to school and they carry a smartphone, an app can give you the confidence to know that they’re safe. College students-especially those who walk around campus at night- can also benefit from having a protective app close at hand. Women should also consider downloading an app they trust and like. According to UN Women, approximately 35 percent of women around the world have experienced some form of violence by a non-partner in their lifetime. Having the right type of defense mechanisms in place can be extremely empowering.

Safety App Options Footprints

Never worry about where your children are again. The Footprints app is designed to help you monitor their whereabouts. You can use it to confirm that they arrived at school or at a friend’s house on time. And if they’re late to meet you after school, you can track their location with a quick tap. The information is limited to those who are permitted to view it. It’s free to download, and there is also a limited free trial. After that, you’ll pay a fee for either three months, a year, or two years. It’s available for iOS devices.

Offender Locator

Apps that provide you with valuable information can also be priceless. Offender Locator is one such option. It’s easy to use. The app uses your location information to zero in on your specific area, then provides you with a comprehensive list of registered sex offenders in the vicinity. In addition to their exact address, it also includes a photograph, identifying features, date of the most recent update to the listing, and mileage from your property. It’s free for iOS users, but there’s also a paid version if you wish to eliminate advertisements.

Circle of 6

Circle of 6 has grown from a handy safety app for college students to something that everyone can use. It’s particularly useful for women who are constantly on the go. To use it, simply select up to six people from your circle of friends and include them in your trusted contact group. Whenever you need to, tap on one of three pins to alert those in your circle that you need help. When you hit the pin, for example, your friends will get a text stating that you need help getting home safely. The phone icon tells your circle that you need someone to call you quickly to help you out of a situation. The chat icon simply tells your group that you need to talk to someone.

Kitespring

Kitespring is a comforting app to have. It operates based on your inactivity. You simply need to let the system know that you’re going out. It will check up on you at a certain point, and if you don’t reply, it will alert your contacts. The Kitespring Free version covers up to three outings a month and includes one emergency contact, while the Plus version for $3 a month offers unlimited outings and contacts. You don’t even have to download an app! Simply sign up on the Kitespring website, and you’ll receive text notifications as needed.