An urgent product safety warning has been issued for tens of thousands of personal safety alarms sold across the UK, after an investigation by consumer champion Which? found they catastrophically fail to work when needed most.
The alarming discovery was made during rigorous testing of devices marketed as essential protection for the elderly, vulnerable, and those who live alone. These gadgets are designed to emit a loud, piercing sound to deter attackers or summon help in an emergency.
Testing Reveals Critical Failures
Which? put 19 different personal alarm models through their paces, with devastating results. A staggering 11 of them failed basic performance and safety tests.
The most common and dangerous failure was a simple lack of sound. In multiple instances, devices that claimed to produce an ear-splitting 140-decibel warning—louder than a jet engine—either emitted a pathetic, quiet squeak or remained completely silent when the trigger was pressed.
Other critical failures included poorly designed key rings that detached with minimal force, easily breaking away from a user's person, and safety catches that could be accidentally switched off, rendering the device useless without the owner realising.
The Models Affecting UK Consumers
The investigation identified several specific models that pose a direct risk to public safety. These include:
- Bling Jewels Personal Alarm: Advertised as a 'powerful 140dB alarm', it produced a negligible sound and its key ring broke away instantly during testing.
- EasyAcc Personal Security Alarm: Another device promising 140dB that failed to produce a loud noise.
- Nexillence 2 Pack Personal Alarm: Its safety pin was found to be so loose it could easily switch off in a pocket or bag.
- Qoosea 4 Pack Personal Alarm Keychain: Its key ring was deemed dangerously weak and prone to breaking.
An Industry-Wide Problem
Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, stated: ‘It is utterly unacceptable that products designed to help people feel safe could be so poorly made and ineffective... Which? is calling for urgent action to be taken against the retailers selling these faulty alarms.’
The issue appears to be systemic, with many of these faulty products readily available on major online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, making it difficult for consumers to identify trustworthy devices.
What to Do If You Own an Alarm
Which? is urging anyone who owns a personal alarm to immediately test its functionality in a safe environment to ensure it works as intended. Check the volume is sufficiently loud and that the key attachment is secure.
Consumers who discover they own a faulty model should stop using it immediately and contact the retailer for a refund under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
For those looking to purchase a reliable device, consumers are advised to look for alarms that have passed independent testing standards, such as those bearing the Red Tractor mark or that have been approved by the Police Preferred Specification scheme.
