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My favorite personal safety alarm is as loud as a jackhammer, and it just got an upgrade

Christina Darby/ZDNET

A safety alarm may not be on everyone’s radar, but as a 20-something woman who’s traveled alone in and out of the busiest metropolitan areas in the nation, it’s a must — and it’s for anyone of any age. 

I carried the She’s Birdie personal alarm throughout college, and have continued to do so since. While I hope to never have to use it, every dollar I spent on it is worth it for the peace of mind it brings me. When the top pin of the Birdie is pulled out, a 130db siren sounds and a strobe light flashes for up to 40 minutes. To put that in perspective, a 130db sound is equivalent to a jackhammer and nearly equal to the sound of a jet engine in the distance, according to the Hearing Health Foundation<!–>

Also: This tiny keychain is a mighty tool for your personal safety 

Birdie just upgraded its original alarm, adding new features like a flashlight, an on/off switch, and the ability to recharge via USB-C. The version I use runs on a CR2032 battery, which is equally functional. I’ve only had to replace the battery a handful of times in the 6-plus years I’ve owned mine. 

Either model you choose, old or new, is a wise investment. While an alarm may not protect me from danger, I like knowing that at any moment I have the option to draw attention to myself and hopefully thwart any nefarious activity.

Also: This AirTag key organizer has survived the ultimate torture test – and I’d repurchase it any time

I carry this on my keychain and hold it while walking anywhere. It’s a great investment for college students, parents with small children, older adults, and more, but for $30, I recommend everyone scoop one up. 


Source: Robotics - zdnet.com

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