Panic button on your phone
Crime fighters in Plettenberg Bay are using technology in their efforts to keep locals safe wherever they are and to more effectively respond to crime.
Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations head Otto Olivier encouraged residents to download the Bull Horns Panic Button that has now been linked to Plett Security – an active role player within the PBCPA.
The app, available for Apple and android devices, is a mobile panic button which alerts not only selected individuals about the user’s emergency, but also sends an alert to a local security service provider informing them that the user is in trouble.
“You don’t always have a panic button with you, but most of us always have our cellphones with us, whether we are running, taking a walk, cycling or driving. This app ensures that, with the push of a button, someone out there knows where you are, who you are and is able to find and assist you,” Olivier said.
He explained that the app allows the user to identify five people who will receive an SMS when the panic button is activated. The SMS will inform the selected person that the user has an emergency and pinpoint his or her location.
“Several security service providers are linked to the app – in Bitou’s case Plett Security. When your panic button is pushed, your service provider also receives a notification and can then respond appropriately. Locally the notification will go to Plett Security’s control room.”
The app also has several nonemergency features, one of which is a tool to report crimes or suspicious behaviour. “When you use this feature all those using the app in your immediate vicinity will receive a notification of the situation.”
There is also a “follow me” feature. “This is ideal in instances where a loved one has gone running or has gone on a journey and you want to make sure they reach their destination safely. The personnel in the control room will then be able to check in on the user and make sure they are safe.”
Another feature, a “local police” button, will connect users with local police stations, wherever they may find themselves.
“While we have not designed the app, we have decided to link to it as it is free and is an effective tool to use in fighting crime and keeping people safe.”
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route news’
Source: Knysna Plett Herald News