DURESS ALARMS - FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL SAFETY
There is a growing trend being noticed in the security industry here in WA for personal protection. I am now being asked regularly on what is available for use and how effective personal duress alarms are in helping to protect a person in times of immediate personal danger.
Below I will explain all there is to Duress Alarms and why you should consider a personal duress alarm for your personal safety
What is a Duress Alarm?
A personal duress alarm is a device or system that is used to signal that an individual is in danger or under duress. They normally take the shape of a pendant, wristwatch or another small device that can be discreetly carried on your person. They operate either independently or report back to a security monitoring station - which is what I would 100% recommend.
Duress alarms can be used in a variety of situations, including:
- when someone feels unsafe, or is being threatened or assaulted
- when an individual is at risk of domestic violence
- when the individual experiences a fall at work or home
Types of Duress Alarms
There are several different types of duress alarm systems available on the market. The most common type of duress alarm is the panic button alarm. Panic button alarms are small, handheld devices that can be carried by an individual at all times.
There are also in-home duress alarm systems, which can be used to monitor and protect individuals who are at risk of domestic violence or abuse. In-home duress alarm systems usually consist of a base alarm unit, which is connected to the home's telephone line, and a wearable panic button.
Another type of duress alarm system is the personal alarm with GPS. GPS alarms use satellite technology to track the location of the user and can be configured to send an alert if they move away from a predetermined safe area. GPS duress alarms are often used to monitor employees who work in remote or high-risk locations, or people living with dementia who may get disoriented or lost more easily. e worker safety and elderly independent living.
How does a duress alarm system work?
A duress safety alarm system typically consists of three main components:
- a duress device, worn by the individual at risk
- a monitoring station, which received duress signals and dispatches help
- a response team which can organise a predetermined response
Duress alarm systems work by sending a duress signal to a monitoring centre (such as the 24/7 Tunstall Connected Care Centre) or predetermined emergency contacts when the panic button is activated. The duress signal can be sent via a dedicated duress alarm network, a mobile phone network, or a satellite network, depending on the make, model and configuration of the device.
In Duress mode, the monitoring centre staff won't generally speak with the alarm wearer/user, but instead monitor the situation through one-way communication and respond accordingly and in line with agreed processes.
The benefits of using a duress alarm
There are many benefits to using a duress alarm, including:
- providing peace of mind and safety for the individual wearing the device
- giving family, friends and carers peace of mind knowing that their loved one can summon help at the touch of a button
- getting help rapidly in an emergency situation, such as the wearer experiencing a fall, accident or assault while working remotely
If you or someone you know is at risk of domestic violence, a duress alarm can provide an invaluable layer of protection and peace of mind. Duress alarms are also commonly used by lone workers and people living with dementia, making them a versatile safety solution for a wide range of situations.
Duress alarm systems can also be used to monitor employee safety in high-risk environments, or to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in workplaces such as construction sites.
Duress Alarm System Considerations
When choosing a duress alarm system, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind, including:
WHAT TYPE OF DURESS DEVICE IS BEST SUITED TO MY NEEDS?
Duress devices come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small pendants that can be worn around the neck or wrist, to larger mobile devices that can be carried in a pocket or bag. Choose a duress device that is comfortable to wear and easy to use, so you will be more likely to activate it in an emergency situation.
HOW WILL THE DURESS SIGNAL BE SENT?
As mentioned above, duress signals can be sent via a dedicated duress alarm network, a mobile phone network, or a satellite network. Consider your specific needs and choose the duress alarm system that best meets them.
WHAT IS THE RESPONSE TIME?
The response time is the amount of time it takes for the duress signal to be received and processed by the monitoring centre. When choosing a duress alarm system, make sure to inquire about the average response time so you can be sure you will receive help in a timely manner.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST, AND WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Duress alarm systems can vary widely in price, depending on the features and services included. Many providers offer stand-alone personal alarm devices which require the user to configure their own emergency contacts, whereas a monitored duress system like Tunstall's Connected Care ensures there is always someone to answer your emergency, 24/7, 365 days a year.