Self Defense Apps: Good or Bad?
Maybe you don’t have room in your schedule right now to join a class or don't know exactly how to start, but you want to do SOMETHING! Will that self-defense app you just downloaded be good enough to keep you safe? Here are the pro's and con's about apps for self defense.
PRO'S
Awareness:
There is rarely, if ever, a downside to increasing personal and environmental awareness, awareness of the possibility that crime can and does happen, and awareness of the need for individuals to take responsibility for practicing commonsense safety strategies.
Alerting, Notifying, Tracking:
There are undeniable perks to being able to quickly alert law enforcement to both your location and your need for help, tracking your kids as they walk home from school, and notifying trusted friends as you set off alone on a hike or walk across campus.
CON'S
Response Time:
While this “con” isn’t the fault of personal safety apps, it is important that users take into consideration the fact that although they can call for help in a fraction of a second, it will take considerably longer before anyone will actually arrive to help. These apps in no way replace the absolutely essential need for physical self-defense skills.
Over-Reliance:
If you’ve had bad reception or had a call drop in the last few months you’ve been reminded that technology is not a fail-proof invention. Personal safety apps depend on the technology to work flawlessly, something that can not be guaranteed. Users should have a back-up plan in place, and be proactive about acquiring even basic self-defense skills.
False Sense of Security:
Users may overestimate an apps effectiveness, potentially neglecting other critical safety measures. Apps cannot physically defend you and using them in a crisis may distract you and do more harm than good.
Cost and Subscriptions:
Some apps require a subscription, which may not be affordable for everyone.
While self defense apps can be very helpful, we view them as an add on. They are most effective when added to a regular training program with self defense, situational awareness, and other safety practices. There is absolutely no substitute for real life, hands on training.
