We didn’t think it possible, especially after looking at Gauteng’s website, but the province’s e-Panic Button app has officially launched (not counting its trial phase since May 2023), and… it doesn’t totally suck. In fact, looking at the reviews across Android and iOS, it’s quite the opposite, with many claiming expertly quick response times, and an all-round appreciation for the app working exactly as promised.
Which, if you haven’t been keeping up with the app’s storied past, is to “fight against crime and the persistent issues of domestic violence in SA.” Residents are urged to download the app — which is entirely free to download and use — and, in case of an emergency, hit the e-Panic button to call for assistance whether you’re after emergency services or armed response.
“The Gauteng Panic Button is a testament to the progress made by the provincial government to create a safer environment for everyone in the province. By downloading and using this app, you can protect yourself and your loved ones in times of emergency,” said Bonginkosi Dhlamini, Gauteng’s MEC of e-Government.
A full-blown panic button
O ikantse eng mara o sa downloade Gauteng e-Panic Button 😆😜 #waroncrime #growingasafergauteng pic.twitter.com/qSiCJMGTTf
— Gauteng e-Government (@GautengeGov) July 30, 2024
Before you can get the e-Panic Button rolling, you’ll have to provide it with some of your personal information. It’s worth noting that, while the process isn’t what we’d call ‘slow’, it’s inadvisable to attempt to download and register your device while in a high-pressure situation.
It’s best to avoid that prospect altogether by downloading the app and saving it for a rainy day.
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Download the app to your smartphone (or tablet, we’re not here to judge), open it, and hand over your phone number. You’ll be sent an OTP (one-time-pin) via SMS. Input the six-digit code to progress to the next screen. Here you’ll be asked for information such as your name, surname, and email address (optional) before accepting the Ts and Cs and allowing the app full access to your location and ‘motion permissions’ at all times.
If that’s a no-go, you’ll have an impossible time trying to use the app’s main features, of which there are three:
- Report a Crime – allows users to select the type of crime they wish to report, include a description, and upload images before sending the report to the relevant authorities.
- Medical Emergencies – Press this button to immediately send a distress signal and your location to the Gauteng eGovernment, which should call your device to check whether it was an accidental tap or more.
- Panic Button – This is the button at the bottom of the home screen. You will need to hold the button down for three seconds before it activates, after which police will be dispatched to your location ASAP.