HOUSTON – In a world where personal safety is paramount, knowing how to discreetly alert someone that you’re in danger can be life-saving.
While there are many ways to call for help, having a set of emergency code words for friends or family can be one of the most effective and covert methods to signal distress without alerting a potential threat.
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Here are five emergency code words you can use to signal danger to your friends:
1. “Pineapple”
The word “pineapple” has become a popular code word in recent years. It’s common enough to be used in a conversation without raising suspicion, yet it can serve as an immediate red flag to someone who knows what it means. For example, you could text, “I’m really craving pineapple right now,” to signal that you’re in trouble.
2. “Are the documents ready?”
This phrase can be used in a professional or personal context. If you send a message asking, “Are the documents ready?” or “Did you finish the paperwork?” it could indicate that you’re in a situation where you need help, but you can’t openly express it.
3. “I need to borrow a charger”
This code phrase is subtle, especially when texting. In a scenario where you’re feeling unsafe, sending a message like, “Can I borrow your charger?” might indicate that you need immediate assistance. It’s a simple request that doesn’t seem out of place but can carry a hidden meaning.
4. “How’s [pet’s name] doing?”
Using the name of a pet or another personalized reference can be a great way to communicate danger. For instance, asking about a pet in an unusual context, like during an awkward or tense conversation, can signal distress. A text like, “How’s Bella doing today?” could indicate you need help, especially if Bella is not a common subject of discussion.
5. “I’m heading to the gym now”
This phrase works well in situations where you might need to leave a location but can’t do so safely. By saying, “I’m heading to the gym now,” you can discreetly alert your friends that you’re planning to exit but might need support or someone to check in on you.
Emergency code words are important to have because they allow people to alert their friends or family to danger without escalating a dangerous situation. These words and phrases should be pre-arranged with trusted individuals who can act appropriately if they receive such a signal. In some cases, the response might be to call the police, while in others, it might involve checking in with the person or providing a reason for them to leave their current location.
To effectively use these code words, it’s important to have a conversation with your friends or family about what each phrase means and what action should be taken if they receive it. Make sure the code words are not too obvious but still recognizable enough that they can be easily remembered and used in everyday situations.
In an emergency, every second counts, and having a discreet way to signal danger could make all the difference. By incorporating these code words into your safety plan, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected situations where you can’t openly call for help.
KPRC 2 News created a series, “Breaking Free,” reporting on domestic-related violence and its horrific consequences. The series showcased various stories of survival, heartache, and some even ending in death, but each shared a list of free domestic violence resources on how to get help.
Do you know someone in need of help? KPRC 2 released the following features in “Breaking Free.”
Help is also available immediately if you need it through the following numbers:
- Houston Area Women’s Center: (713) 528-2121
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799−7233
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911.