Select Page

That aforementioned feature is helpful if someone is simply being a nuisance, but when you’re in a dangerous situation where a fake call isn’t enough, you can hold down the Flare button to send a message and your location to your selected contacts. Flare has also established a partnership with Noonlight, so you can set up the Flare device (through the app) to call 911 when you hold the button down. You’ll get a text and call immediately, and if you can’t answer, your location is shared with first responders in your area. If you set it off accidentally and want to cancel, the operator will ask for personal identifiers, like the spelling of your last name and phone number, so they know it’s really you.

The pricing has changed since we first tested this one. Bracelets are now $98 (down from $129), but you must now choose a monthly protection plan. At checkout, you’ll choose 6-, 12-, or 24-month plans, which are $5, $4, and $3 per month, respectively, and each gets one month free.

Flare is currently only available for iPhone users; an Android version is still in the works, but the company hasn’t said when it will be available. The battery isn’t rechargeable, which the company says was an intentional design choice to avoid any frustration with having to constantly recharge the thing. But the bracelet is guaranteed to last one year and depending on usage could last as long as two years. After that, you’ll have to purchase an entirely new bracelet for another $98.

The Flare Bracelet for iPhone costs $98 plus a monthly subscription.

Note: The company picks five people each month who are in need to receive a free bracelet. You can nominate yourself or someone you know here. 

More Wearables With Safety Features

InvisaWear keychains, bracelets, and more

Image may contain Cell Phone Electronics Mobile Phone Phone Accessories Accessory and Jewelry

These charms have a button on the back that can be used to call for help.

Photograph: InvisaWear

If you like the idea of Flare but have an Android phone, or simply don’t wear bracelets, then you might want to consider InvisaWear products, which are backed by the home security company ADT. The InvisaWear lineup includes a wide range of products: keychains, bracelets, necklaces, fitness bands, and even scrunchies. (Yes, you can now buy a “smart” scrunchie backed by a home security company.) Like Flare, these products are mostly designed to blend in with the rest of your wardrobe.