Skip to content
English
Contact us
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

Setting Up Panic Shortcuts on Android (Experimental)

GetHomeSafe allows you to trigger a panic alert using physical volume buttons on your Android device by configuring a custom key sequence.


Experimental Feature: Due to strict Android operating system limitations regarding background actions, this feature is currently considered experimental. For the volume key sequence to successfully trigger a panic alert, the following conditions must be met:

  • An Activity Must Be Running: You must have an active session currently running in the GetHomeSafe app.
  • The Phone Must Be Unlocked: Your phone screen must be awake and the device must be unlocked for the operating system to register the volume key presses.

Note on Discreet Panic: If your organisation has 'Discreet Panic' enabled, these shortcuts will be completely silent. You will instead feel vibrations to confirm your status:

  • 1 short vibration: Action sent
  • 3 short vibrations: Panic successfully activated

Step 1: Enable the Feature

You must first turn on the hardware shortcut feature within the GetHomeSafe app.

  1. Open the GetHomeSafe App and navigate to Settings -> Panic Shortcut Setup.
  2. Tap the toggle to switch the hardware shortcut feature to ON.


Step 2: Set Your Custom Key Sequence

Once enabled, the app will immediately prompt you to create your unique trigger mechanism.

  1. When prompted, create a custom 6-key sequence (for example: Volume Up, Up, Down, Up, Down, Down).
  2. Use your phone's physical volume buttons to record your chosen combination.
  3. Save your sequence to confirm.

Step 3: Managing and Testing Your Shortcut

Once your sequence is set up, you will see two management options on the Panic Shortcut Setup screen:

  • Change Sequence: If you find your current sequence difficult to remember or execute quickly, you can tap this option to overwrite it and record a new 6-key combination at any time.
  • Test Sequence: We highly recommend practicing your sequence to build muscle memory. Tapping this option allows you to perform your volume key combination to ensure you have it right. The app will confirm a successful test on-screen without actually sending an alert to your team.