The Orchards residents urged to use Gauteng e-Panic Button to enable swifter crime response
In crime-prone areas, where safety remains a top concern for residents, this app is set to be a game changer in terms of public safety.
Residents of The Orchards are urged to adopt the Gauteng e-Panic Button app to boost personal safety and combat crime more effectively in the area.
This digital safety tool, developed as part of the Gauteng government’s broader initiative to fight crime, is designed to allow users to signal for help instantly during emergencies, with rapid response as a key feature.
In crime-prone areas, where safety remains a top concern for residents, this app is set to be a game changer in terms of public safety.
The Orchards Ext 46 resident Lerato Sepeng said it’s important for fellow neighbours to have the app.
“Sometimes we’re not home and my neighbours might find themselves in trouble; having the app will help deter crime faster rather than waiting for us to intervene.
“It’s very important to have the app because the community will be safer than before,” said Sepeng.
The e-Panic Button app works as a mobile-based personal security system, allowing residents to alert emergency services by pressing a panic button on their smartphones.
To activate it, users need to simply press and hold the panic button for about three seconds, which triggers an alert sent directly to local authorities and registered responders in the area.
This is achieved through the GPS functionality, which pinpoints the user’s exact location and allows for quicker dispatch of emergency assistance.
For The Orchards residents, where crime may escalate rapidly, having access to immediate help through a smartphone offers peace of mind and may deter potential criminal activity.
The faster crime can be reported, the more efficient the authorities’ response, reducing the risk of harm to individuals.
Nkhensani Makhubela of the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) department in the Department of Community Safety said the app also helps victims of GBV.
“All genders are affected by GBV and having this app will help victims to call for help in times where it’s needed the most.
“Prevention is better than cure they say and by that I mean victims shouldn’t wait for blood to be spilled before realising how important this app is for them,” said Makhubela.
The Orchards has faced rising concerns over safety with house break-ins, robberies, and other criminal activities becoming common concerns for the community.
While law enforcement remains vigilant, the e-Panic Button offers an extra layer of protection, giving residents a direct line to assistance when danger is imminent.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk said SAPS is committed to supporting initiatives to combat crime.
“Gauteng provincial government has developed a panic app designed to help reduce crime across the province.
“We encourage citizens to make use of this app, which will improve response times and assist in apprehending perpetrators more effectively,” said Van Dyk.
The app allows users to discreetly signal for help, even in situations where making a call may not be possible, such as during a home invasion or while being followed.
It is also linked to a network of security companies and law enforcement personnel, ensuring that the closest responders can reach the user quickly.
To start using the e-Panic Button, residents need to download the app, which is available on major app stores.
Makhubela said registration is simple and involves inputting your personal details, such as contact information and a list of emergency contacts.
“Once registered, users can customise their app settings, including selecting the specific type of response they might need, such as police, medical or fire services.
“The app is free to download, making it accessible to all residents in The Orchards community.
However, it’s important that users familiarise themselves with the app’s features and test the panic button in non-emergency situations to ensure they know how to use it effectively when the time comes.”
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