by Team TCP

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Subtle Signals to Get Help When You're in Danger

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Sometimes, finding the right words to ask for help can be difficult or even dangerous. Here are five subtle signals you can use to discreetly indicate that you need assistance:

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1. The "Ask for Angela" Code: This is a code used in bars and restaurants. If you're feeling unsafe or uncomfortable, simply ask for "Angela," and the staff will understand that you need help. They can discreetly escort you to safety or call the authorities.

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2. The "Angel Shot": This is another code phrase that can be used in bars. Order an "angel shot," and the bartender will know that you're in need of assistance. Different variations of the angel shot can signal different levels of urgency, such as needing an escort to your car or calling the police.

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3. One-Sided Phone Calls: If you have a pre-recorded phone call of someone calling your name, play it on speakerphone. This can deter an attacker by making them think someone is looking for you.

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4. Wearable Emergency Devices: These devices, like bracelets or keychains, can send your GPS location to emergency responders or designated contacts when activated. They can also be used to trigger a loud alarm to scare off an attacker.

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5. Distress Signals: Simple distress signals, like tapping three times on a window or repeatedly knocking on a door, can be used to alert others to your situation.  Also, use the acronym STAN. 

“STAN” stands for “Send The Authorities Now” and is used to request immediate intervention by authorities.  EXAMPLE TEXT: 'Do you need to speak with Stan?  I know I do!'

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Remember, these are just a few examples of signals that can be used to discreetly indicate that you need help. If you're ever in a dangerous situation, trust your instincts and do whatever you feel is necessary to ensure your safety.

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How to Respond if You Witness a Signal

If you witness someone using one of these signals, it's important to act quickly and discreetly. Here are some steps you can take:

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1. Assess the Situation: If time permits, carefully observe the person's behavior and surroundings. If you believe they are in danger, immediately contact the authorities and cautiously approach them.

2. Ask if They Need Help: Approach the person and ask if they need assistance. Use a calm and reassuring tone.  Watch their body language for cues. 

3. Offer Help: If they confirm that they need help, offer to escort them to safety or call for emergency services.

4. Distract the Potential Threat: If you believe there is an immediate threat for a family member, try to distract the person or create a diversion to give the victim time to escape.  For a stranger, be very cautious to avoid having attention brought to you and your loved ones.

5. Report the Incident: After attempting to ensure the person's safety, immediately report the incident to the authorities.

 

Additional Tips

• Educate Yourself: Learn about other distress signals and safety tips to be prepared for various situations.  If a person signaled you for help would you know?

• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, don't hesitate to seek help.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your environment and be mindful of potential dangers.  All do not think as you – the sooner you understand this, the better to adapt to diverse mentalities.

• Encourage Others to Learn: Share this information with friends and family to help spread awareness about safety signals.  We don’t want it to happen to any person including you.

 

Remember, even a small act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone's life. By being aware of these signals and knowing how to respond, you can help protect yourself and others from danger.​​​​

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FYI

There are other quiet ways to ask for help that many people now recognize. One is the “Signal for Help,” a simple hand gesture that became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic. To use it, hold up your hand with your palm facing out, tuck your thumb into your palm, and then fold your fingers down over it. This can be done from a distance or on a video call and lets others know you may be in danger without saying a word.

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Your phone can also help you in an emergency. Many devices have built-in safety tools like iPhone Emergency SOS and Android Emergency SOS. These features can quickly call for help and share your location with emergency services or trusted contacts. You can also use apps like Find My, Google Maps, or Life360 to let someone you trust see where you are in real time.

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It's also a good idea to plan ahead with people you trust. You can agree on a simple code word or phrase that means “I need help.” This can be used in a text message or phone call without alerting others nearby. For example, asking a question that sounds normal but feels out of place can signal that something is wrong.

Here are some simple, everyday-sounding code phrases people can agree on ahead of time:

• “Can you check on my dog for me today?” (when you don’t have a dog)

• “Can you send me that recipe?” (when you never asked before)

• “Is Aunt Mary coming over tonight?” (there is no aunt and the receiver knows it)

• “I think I lost my charger again” (used as a signal, not a real issue)

• “Can you call me right now? It’s about tomorrow.” (adds urgency)

• “Do you remember that movie we watched last week?” (when you didn’t watch one)

 

The key is to choose phrases that seem normal to others but would stand out to the person you trust. Plan ahead so you don't have to wish you did.  It also helps to agree on what action they should take, like calling you, coming to get you, or contacting help.

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These tools and signals work best when you set them up before you need them. Take a few minutes to learn how they work and share your plan with someone you trust. Small steps like these can make it easier to get help quickly and safely.

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​FYI: Source assistance via Google

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We want your input.  Email us at TCPcontact1@gmail.com

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