Pocket Devices Save Real Estate Agents’ Lives

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November 6, 2022

Home » Pocket Devices Save Real Estate Agents’ Lives

About the Author

Chris Holbert is the CEO of SecuraTrac®—which develops, markets, and sells a suite of mobile safety solutions focused on improving senior and employee health and safety through mobile, location-based technology and state-of-the-art, cloud-based platforms. The devices can be utilized inside and outside of the U.S. to give consumers access to emergency services at the push of a button. Chris is a dynamic, results-oriented technology and business leader with a proven track record of building corporate competitive advantage through the development of custom software and the integration of business technology. For more information visit: www.securatrac.com.

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While being a real estate agent might seem like a safe job, that isn’t always the case. According to an NAR survey, 40% of real estate agents say they have felt unsafe every few months or evenmore often, and only 5% said they NEVER felt unsafe while doing their job. From working alone, to meeting with strangers in a new environment, and even inviting in anyone that sees an open house sign, real estate agents are put at risk of potential attacks every day. But they don’t have to feel unsafe on the job, carry large protective gear that can make their clients uncomfortable, or rely solely on their cell phones.

Depending on the location of the homes they are showing, or what scenario they might find themselves in, real estate agents may not always be able to call 911 in an emergency. For example, if they fall or are struck by an object, they may be rendered unconscious. These scenarios make it impossible for them to use a cell phone and call for help.

According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 95% of Americans now own a cell phone of some type, and more than one-third own a smartphone. Although these devices may provide many conveniences to users, in emergency situations their use is limited. Cellular devices require the user to still be conscious, and within range of the phone to call for help, making the device unreliable and not the most plausible option for ensuring agents’ safety.

There’s a better solution to providing emergency communication for real estate agents—one that can be easily carried or worn. I’m talking about are mPERS devices [a Mobile Personal Emergency Response System], which can automatically report an incident to emergency services so agents can receive help as soon as possible. An mPERS device, which has been used by seniors for years, is essentially a help button that can be pressed to alert emergency services. In recent years, these devices have become even more beneficial outside of the senior space because they no longer require a base station device to place calls, which previously limited their range of use.

mPERS devices are small, portable, and lightweight. They use up-to-date location technology, and some even offer built-in fall advisory capabilities. These devices can detect horizontal and vertical movement and can initiate a call for help to emergency services without even the need to press a button. This is perfect in situations where an agent may be unresponsive because of an accident or medical emergency. The cloud-based technologies found in mPERS devices make it possible for centralized stations to pick up and response to the need for help as soon as possible. If an agent falls on the job, the device can report it via text message or red flag in a software system.

The devices can also last much longer on one charge than a normal cell phone—another benefit for busy real estate agents. They have far fewer functions—no screen, apps, or texting ability to drain the battery. They can be turned off, but many also come with a “sleep” mode, where once the SOS button is pressed, the exact location of the agent is sent to a central reporting station where an emergency call can be placed. Some mPERS devices can run to 30 days on a single charge.

mPERS devices track incidents by number, type, and location. This is valuable information that can help agents know what areas to avoid and where to be more cautious to avoid repeat incidents. Make sure to choose a device that is made for 5G technology. By the end of this year, all major cell phone networks will fully transition to 5G technology, making out-of-date devices that can only handle 3G or 4G useless. Also, choose an mPERS device that can be upgraded if new data networks and technologies make it necessary.

Whether it’s a pendant or one which is clipped to the pocket or belt, etc. picking a wearable mPERS device that makes the most sense for an agents’ specific needs is an important part of taking advantage of all of the safety benefits. Carrying cans of pepper spray or other protective equipment can still provide extra layers of protection for agents; they may provide more confidence heading out on their own… but they can’t help by calling emergency services. mPERS devices are great additions to any agent’s gear. They don’t take up space, they’re easy to use, and they can even work on their own. Bottom line: an mPERS devics can prevent a bad situation from becoming worse by just the push of a button.

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