April 28--Getting help can be as simple as the push of a button with Revolar, a tiny gadget that clips onto clothing or attaches to a key chain.
Measuring less than 2 inches long, the wearable technology works in conjunction with your smartphone. It enables users to send a message to up to five contacts, telling them to get in touch with you or to send help. The text message includes your location via a GPS link that remains active until you cancel the alert.
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Two pushes of the button on your Revolar device transmit a yellow alert, and three presses raise the urgency level to red.
To get started, you'll need to download the free Revolar app for your iPhone or Android and follow the prompts. Revolar uses Bluetooth technology, so your phone has to be within at least 30-or-so feet of you and have a data or Wi-Fi connection for the alerts to be sent -- something to bear in mind if you plan to use it while traveling abroad.
You can also send alerts directly from your phone, but the point of Revolar is to be able to signal for help quickly and discreetly. The device comes with a watch battery that's said to last for up to a year.
Available at Brookstone stores and online, www.brookstone.com. Price: $99.99.
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