Safety in Numbers

Have you ever been in a situation where you were uncomfortable and wanted to escape but couldn't find a subtle way to leave? That's why we devised an app that helps you do just that.

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Safety in Numbers

by Data Divas and Dude

Inspiration

While numerous safety apps are available, most lack the ability to operate discreetly. In critical situations where immediate assistance is required, using conventional apps may inadvertently draw attention to your actions, potentially compromising your safety.

What it does

Our app is crafted to enable users to seek assistance discreetly. With the appearance of a calculator, it seamlessly conceals its true purpose. Behind this facade, users can swiftly initiate emergency calls to designated contacts or authorities without attracting undue attention. This covert functionality ensures that summoning help remains inconspicuous, offering a layer of security in critical situations.

How we built it

We developed the application using a combination of Expo, Visual Studio Code (VSCode), Node.js, React Native, and JavaScript.

Challenges we ran into

Adapting to Expo's formatting was difficult to wrestle with. Trial and error was key to finding the solution and getting it set up within our laptop. We were all unfamiliar with using JavaScript and Expo, and we overcame that by talking through problems together and using resources such as ChatGPT, StackOverflow, and Alex from MLH. One particular obstacle was the creation of a 'Welcome Screen' before transitioning to the calculator component of the app. We initially thought about hosting a website for users to input their emergency contact information, but we eventually decided to do a screen within the app that looped back into it when a specific passcode was entered. However, implementing the "Welcome Screen" caused some formatting issues within our app, which we had to work through to restore its appearance.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Creating an app felt daunting and unfamiliar at first. Getting to know a language we weren't familiar with was a struggle, but we all ended up knowing a lot more about Expo, JavaScript, Node.js, and React Native when we finished. Through perseverance and dedication, we emerged with valuable insights and newfound proficiency in these technologies.

What we learned

Some soft skills we learned is how to work as a team, problem-solve through bugs and issues, and how to use our resources effectively. Hard skills we learned is using Expo, JavaScript, Node.js, and React Native.

What's next for

We would like to add customization features for user's convenience and preference, which would add to the confidentiality and security of our application. If a lot of people start downloading our app, word would be out that there is a disguised safety app that looks like a calculator. In order to prevent raising suspicion, we would like to add more features, such as a clock app, compass, measuring tools, flashlight, etc. to blend in our app with the other applications one may typically find in the average phone user's home screen. Additionally, we would like to add a feature that can send messages, instead of only calling an emergency contact. This is great for an individual who wants someone to be aware that they may be in a dangerous situation, but does not think it's necessary to call someone just yet.

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