Personal alarms are tiny security gadgets which produce loud sounds when activated. Their sound intensity is usually more than 100 decibels. This intensity differs from one tool to another. The size, quality, and model also vary from one manufacturer to another. There are thousands of different models of personal alarms and picking the best one requires some expertise. 

The main aim of arming oneself with a personal alarm is to distract an attacker while attracting the attention of the security personnel. When you activate the tool, it will produce a loud sound which will alert security to come to your rescue. The loud noise will also confuse your attacker and cause him or her to panic. For this reason, a personal alarm is often referred to as a panic alarm. 

Confronted with a wide range of models and different types of personal alarms, how does one choose the best one? Well, there are several factors that you should consider before picking a suitable personal alarm. One thing to look out for is the size. Select a tool that you can easily hide and carry around. A tiny security alarm that can fit on your fingers like a ring or a key-holder is ideal. The smaller the size, the better. The idea is to have a panic alarm which is readily available and can be concealed. 

Another important feature that you should look out for in a panic alarm is the ease of activation. Do you activate your alarm by pulling a pin, inserting a pin or pushing a button? You do not want to fumble with your alarm while you are under attack. The best tool should be super-easy to activate. 

Generally, the louder the alarm, the more effective it is. A personal alarm which can produce a sound intensity of 125 decibels is more effective compared to one which can only produce a maximum of 105 decibels. Also, you should check the radius with which the noise can cover. If you are a person who likes jogging in a quiet park, then you need an alarm whose sound can travel and cover a larger circumference. 

You should also check for additional features like battery life or whether the personal alarm is affected by water. You need an alarm whose battery can last longer. Additionally, you need a tool whose battery cells are readily available. A waterproof alarm will cushion you during the rainy season and swimming sessions. Another thing you need to look for while shopping for a personal alarm is whether it produces flashlight. This extra feature will scare the attacker more.