How To Use “Personal Safety Alarms”, Which May Be Distributed For Free In Some Communities

Japanese elementary school children go to school on their own. Although they may walk to and from school in a group at the beginning of the school year, the rest of the time they are basically on their own commuting to and from school. Personal safety alarms are to protect children on the way to and from school.


What Are Personal Safety Alarms Like?

Personal safety alarms make a loud noise when a pull pin is removed or a button is pressed. Children can draw others’ attention by triggering their personal safety alarms, even if they cannot call out for help when they sense danger. It can also scare a suspicious person when they feel unsafe. Personal safety alarms are recommended to be kept where they can easily be accessed by children, such as the belt of their randoseru (school backpack).


Where Can You Purchase Personal Safety Alarms?

Personal Safety Alarms are available at stores which handle children’s school supplies, such as stationery stores, home improvement stores, department stores, shopping malls, and online stores. An important point when choosing a personal safety alarm is the volume. The louder the volume, the better. As the way to produce sound also varies depending on the device, you may want to talk about it with your child, so you can choose the one that is easy for them to use. Choosing one that it is hard to stop the sound on will prevent the suspicious person from stopping the alarm. Children should be taught how to stop the sound as they may accidentally trigger the alarm.


Some Local Government Distribute Personal Safety Alarms For Free

Some local governments distribute personal safety alarms to children in the community for free. It often happens when children enter elementary school as first graders. Parents are responsible to replace it if their child’s safety alarm is broken or lost. Please check with your local government office to see if it is distributed for free or not, as the situation varies depending on the community.


Although some communities have neighborhood volunteers to watch children walking to and from school, it is very important to teach your child the way to protect themselves when it is necessary. Consider personal safety alarms as a way for your child to protect themselves.