Panic Device with 2-Way Communication

Abstract

A panic device operable in conjunction with a local device is configured to unlock a locking mechanism. The panic device can take the form of an electronic key fob, a key shaft, or a key holder. A first trigger on the panic device triggers a local alarm that is on-board or off-board the panic device. A second trigger on the panic device can activate an alarm circuitry that utilizes a local device to provide position information to a distant dispatch station. The local device uses a GPS-aware circuitry or other non-GPS means such as triangulation to determine the position information. The position information can then be sent to the distant dispatch station with or without the aid of the local device.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A hand-carried alarm device, comprising:
 a microphone and an on-board speaker;   electronics configured to operate the on-board speaker and engage in 2-way communication with a distant dispatch station;   a button that initiates the 2-way communication with the distant dispatch station; and   alarm circuitry that sends a signal to the distant dispatch station based on an occurrence of an event and without activation of a trigger, wherein the signal includes position information derived from GPS circuitry, and wherein the signal is a cell phone signal.   
     
     
         2 . The panic device of  claim 1 , wherein the alarm circuitry sends the signal without intervention of the device. 
     
     
         3 . The panic device of  claim 1 , wherein the alarm circuitry further triggers an alarm. 
     
     
         4 . The panic device of  claim 3 , wherein the alarm comprises a communication with another device. 
     
     
         5 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the hand-carried alarm device can be worn by a user. 
     
     
         6 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the alarm circuitry sends the signal based on an input received by a motion detector. 
     
     
         7 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the signal includes identification information. 
     
     
         8 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the event is an injury. 
     
     
         9 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the device is connected to a key ring.