The owners of KinderGard previously built and then sold the #1 personal alarm company in the United States. We actually authored the definitive white paper on personal alarms a few years back. We’ve tested nearly every function, every technology, nearly every domestic and international manufacturer, and almost every configuration of personal alarms. We’ve determined for our own brands we won’t include rechargeable batteries, and we’ll tell you why in this article.
Personal alarms have become an essential safety device for many individuals, providing a sense of security and protection in various situations. These compact gadgets emit loud and attention-grabbing sounds to deter potential threats or signal for help. While personal alarms have evolved with technological advancements, the use of rechargeable batteries in these devices may not always be the best choice. In this article, we will discuss why personal alarms should avoid rechargeable batteries due to reliability and safety concerns.
Dependability in Critical Moments: When it comes to personal safety, dependability is crucial. Personal alarms serve as a lifeline during emergencies, and the reliability of the power source is of utmost importance. Rechargeable batteries, despite their eco-friendly appeal and cost-effectiveness in the long run, tend to lose their charge over time. For instance, if a personal alarm has been left unused for an extended period, the rechargeable battery may discharge, leaving the user vulnerable when they need it most. This unpredictability makes them less reliable than traditional, non-rechargeable batteries, which retain their charge for longer periods.
Rapid Response Time: During emergencies, every second counts. Personal alarms are designed to instantly alert others in the vicinity to potential dangers. Rechargeable batteries, while convenient in other applications, can suffer from longer charging times compared to their non-rechargeable counterparts. This drawback could potentially delay the alarm’s activation when it is most needed, compromising the user’s safety. Non-rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, provide immediate power and eliminate any concerns regarding response time.
Safety Hazards: While rechargeable batteries have become prevalent in everyday devices, they are not without their safety risks. Personal alarms are often used in close proximity to the body, making safety a paramount concern. Rechargeable batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, can be susceptible to overheating, swelling, and even explosion if mishandled, damaged, or exposed to extreme temperatures. The potential risk of injury or property damage associated with rechargeable batteries raises concerns that are better avoided in personal safety devices. Non-rechargeable batteries, with their simpler chemistry and stable performance, offer a safer alternative. We use almost exclusively alkaline batteries. Did you know that airlines don’t let you fly with most models of lithium rechargeable batteries? There’s a reason.
Accessibility and Convenience: Personal alarms are often used by a diverse range of individuals, including those who may have limited access to electricity or may face difficulties operating rechargeable devices. Rechargeable batteries require a power source, a compatible charger, and the ability to monitor and manage the charging process. This added complexity can be a significant barrier for some users, whereas non-rechargeable batteries offer a straightforward and universally accessible solution.
Your alarm battery might not be charged when you need it the most. In contrast, the standby time for the typical alkaline batteries we prefer is over a year.
The duration of alarm time can be manipulated to produce a stronger alarm for a longer period of time with the choice of the right alkaline batteries. We prefer them for performance. We’ve even built some models that use traditional AAA batteries. They suffer in size (models that use AAA batteries are larger) but they make up for it in loudness.
Lithium batteries are regulated as a hazardous material under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Hazardous Materials Regulations
Some college campuses even prohibit devices that include rechargeable batteries
While rechargeable batteries have become a popular choice for many electronic devices, personal alarms should not rely on them due to concerns regarding reliability, rapid response time, safety hazards, and accessibility. Non-rechargeable batteries provide a more dependable and safer power source for personal alarms, ensuring that they are always ready to perform their intended function in critical moments. When it comes to personal safety, opting for simplicity and reliability is paramount, and traditional batteries excel in providing these qualities.