The sad reason why a $29 Bunnings buy is selling out across Australia
As concerns over personal safety grow across Australia, a pocket-sized device from Bunnings is becoming a must-have item for women, and now their children too.
The Swann Graphite Gen 2 ActiveResponse Personal Alarm, retailing for just $29, is flying off the shelves as more women turn to the affordable gadget for extra peace of mind.
But it's not just adults who are reaping the benefits of this modern safety essential, concerned mums are now purchasing the alarm for their kids as they become more independent.
Small enough to clip onto a key ring or backpack, the device features two alarm modes: a siren and flashing light activated by pulling the keychain for immediate attention, and a discreet red button that silently sends an SOS message with real-time GPS coordinates to designated emergency contacts.
'Every parent should get one of these for your child,' one Bunnings reviewer raved. 'It's amazing how well it works.'
The surge in popularity reflects a broader trend in Australia, where women, particularly mothers, are increasingly investing in personal safety tools amid rising concerns about violence and street harassment.
In a 2023 report by Australia's National Research Organisation for Women's Safety, nearly two-thirds of Australian women reported feeling unsafe walking alone at night.
It's no surprise then that products like the Swann personal alarm are gaining traction as a modern solution to an age-old problem.
'This is a wonderful product, small and well made,' another reviewer wrote.
'I bought this for my child who has just started high school and has started catching public transport... We've tested it a few times just to be sure and it's amazing how well it works.'
For mums like this, the device offers 'a little bit of backup just in case.'
'I'm not paranoid,' she wrote in her online review, 'but you still want that little bit of backup… She barely notices it's there, and I know if anything ever felt off, she could press the button and I'd get the alert straight away.'
Unlike traditional personal alarms, the Gen 2 version includes built-in mobile connectivity and GPS, removing the need to pair with a smartphone - a critical feature for younger users or those who may not always carry their phones.
The personal alarm also has the tick of approval from New Zealand TikToker Jen Lourdes, who posted a now-viral video on the device.
Jen said she picked up the device after seeing other women recommend it as a simple but effective way to feel a little safer.
'There was a lady on TikTok that recommended getting the personal alarm,' Jen said.
The small, pocket-size device packs a serious punch when it comes to making enough noise to help ward off danger
'This is really great if you're going runs or you're solo travelling, or if you work night shifts.'
The small, sleek, pocket-size device doesn't look like much, but packs a serious punch when it comes to making enough noise to (hopefully) ward off danger.
'What you do is you pull it, and it makes a really loud noise,' Jen explained.
Alternatively, you can push a button and it texts a friend or family member.
Compact enough to clip onto a keychain or lanyard, the alarm is easy to carry during a jog, stash in a handbag or keep close while walking to the car after a night shift.
'I'm slowly started to get into running so I thought it would be perfect to take with me when I go on a run,' Jen added.
'I also do a lot of solo travelling for work, I feel like it's just a bit of extra security.'
While it's comforting to know gadgets like this exist, the surge in popularity sadly reflects a growing reality: women in 2025 are still forced to think about personal safety every time they step outside alone.
'The fact that we live in a world where we need this to feel safe,' one follower commented.
'These should be handed out for free at police stations tbh. Genius!' added another.
While the Swann ActiveResponse offers a quick, affordable way to feel more empowered, the hope remains that one day, women won't have to plan their day around personal protection.
For now though, many are praising Jen and others like her for spreading the word about such a useful gadget.
'Omg this is such a good idea!! Need this asap.'
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