By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department This past week, I had a discussion about the use of panic buttons on car keys. Some people have never used these and wondered when they should. I thought it was a good opportunity to share some of its uses with the readers. Many people have keyless remote buttons for their automobiles. These devices allow us to open or lock car doors or even “pop” the trunk. These panic buttons are usually marked in red on your keys and will sound a vehicle’s horn until it is switched off or the car battery runs out. Most of us have been around when car alarms sound and in addition to being annoying, they draw the attention of people in the vicinity. This can be useful in the event an emergency situation is taking place while you are in a parking lot. It can also be useful in another way. Some people may not be aware these devices can work a considerable distance from your car. One suggestion was to keep the key chain near or with you while in your home. Should a break-in or other emergency occur, you can activate the panic alarm on your vehicle. The noise will draw attention to your situation and could scare off a potential criminal. If people in your neighborhood hear the noise, they may be inclined to notify the police or summon assistance. This could be particularly useful if you are unable to make it to the phone for some reason. This is certainly not a replacement for a home security system or other precautions to safeguard you, your family, or property. It is only one of the tools you can have at your disposal to get assistance in an emergency and possibly prevent further damage or injury. |
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department, 71 West Main St. Dudley, MA 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com.
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