Navigating life independently often comes with its share of anxieties, particularly when it comes to safety while out at night. Fortunately, there’s an innovative solution—a free app designed to help users feel secure by allowing friends or family to virtually accompany them on their journeys. This concept is quickly gaining traction not just in the United States, but around the world.
The Companion app was developed by a group of students from the University of Michigan, specifically to assist those walking home alone at night on college campuses. Here’s how it functions: users select contacts to notify before embarking on a solo trip; these contacts don’t even need to have the app installed. Once alerted, friends or family receive a link to an interactive map that tracks the user’s route to their destination.
Features of the Companion App
Here’s a quick rundown of the app’s features:
- Users input their destination and mode of transportation.
- They can add friends or family members who will “walk” them home.
- With a simple tap, users can contact friends or local authorities.
- A smart trigger can be activated for friends to check in on them.
- If a user fails to confirm their safety within 15 seconds after activating the smart trigger, the app transforms their phone into an alarm system, emitting loud sounds to deter potential threats while also giving contacts the option to call for help.
Additionally, if the user strays off their predetermined path, falls, is pushed, begins running, or disconnects their headphones, the app detects these irregular movements and prompts the user for a safety check. If there’s no response, it automatically contacts emergency services.
As someone who has spent years in bustling cities alone, I find this app incredibly reassuring. The stress of walking alone at night—whether on a college campus or city streets—is palpable. The sense of comfort and security this app offers makes it a must-have. As a future parent of college students, I view this app as a lifesaver. It not only enhances awareness of potential dangers but also takes proactive measures to mitigate them. It’s no surprise that it’s becoming so popular.
The beauty of this app is that our college students can choose who they want to accompany them, meaning it’s not just a tool for parents to keep tabs on their kids. Our children deserve their autonomy, yet sometimes they need that extra layer of security. This app brilliantly balances both needs.
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In summary, the Companion app is an invaluable tool for college students and their parents alike. It fosters a sense of security while allowing students to maintain their independence—truly a win-win.
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