Device Setup & Charging
Unboxing Your Device
Your PanicTap package includes the panic button device, a magnetic charging cord, and a charging stand. The device is roughly the size of a key fob and includes a built-in keychain clip so you can attach it to your keys or lanyard.
Your PanicTap arrives pre-activated. There's nothing to pair, download, or register. Just charge it and it's ready to use.
Charging Instructions
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Connect the charging cord Plug the cord into the charging stand (or use the magnetic cord directly like a phone charger).
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Place the device on the stand Set the PanicTap into the charging stand. A blinking red light confirms charging has started.
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Wait for a solid light When the light on the charging stand turns solid (no longer blinking), the device is fully charged.
A full charge lasts up to two weeks. We recommend charging your device at the end of each work week so it's always ready to go.
Turning On Your Device
Press the button on the side of the device that has a phone icon. You'll see blue and/or green lights blink, indicating the device is powered on and connected to a cellular network. The device uses 4G and connects to any available carrier in your area — it isn't tied to any single provider.
The lights on the side will sometimes turn off to preserve battery. Don't worry — the device is still active. If you press and hold the panic button, it will wake up and connect you to 911 immediately. You can also press the power button to wake it.
How to Activate in an Emergency
Activating Your Device
In an emergency, press and hold the large panic button on the front of your PanicTap for about 2 seconds, until you feel the device vibrate once. That vibration means PanicTap is placing a live call to 911.
A quick tap won't do anything. The button needs to be held for about 2 seconds so it can't go off by accident in a pocket or bag. Press firmly and hold until you feel one vibration.
What Happens When You Activate
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A live call is placed to 911 The device connects you with local emergency services within seconds. No phone needed.
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Your emergency contacts get a text Everyone on your contact list gets a text with a link to your location at the moment you pressed the button. It's a one-time location, not a live tracking link.
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The dispatcher can hear you By default the call is one-way. The dispatcher can hear you, but you won't hear them, so no one nearby knows a call is happening.
Since you can't hear the dispatcher, don't wait for them to ask questions. If it's safe, clearly say where you are and what the emergency is, for example "I'm in the leasing office at 400 Main Street and a man is threatening me." Whether the dispatcher can see your location on their screen depends on your local 911 center, so saying it out loud is the best way to get help to the right place.
Devices are set to one-way audio by default. If you'd prefer two-way audio so you can talk with the dispatcher, email support@panictap.com and we can turn it on for your device.
Emergency Contacts
Who Gets Alerted
Your emergency contacts are the people who get a text with your location when you press the button. Good choices are your direct supervisor, property or store manager, a coworker, or a family member.
Adding or Changing Contacts
For now, our support team sets up your contacts for you. Email support@panictap.com with each contact's name and mobile number, and let us know any time you need to add, remove, or change someone.
Self-service contact management in the Apartment Guardian Dashboard is coming soon. We'll let you know when it's available.
Keep your contact list current. When someone changes roles or leaves the company, email support right away so alerts always reach the right people.
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Device
Contact the PanicTap support team right away at support@panictap.com.
General Safety Best Practices
Carry Your Device at All Times
Your PanicTap is designed to be discreet. Use the keychain clip to keep it on your person — attached to your keys, lanyard, or belt loop. The device only works if it's with you when you need it, so make carrying it part of your daily routine.
High-Risk Situations
Property management professionals encounter higher-risk scenarios regularly. Be especially aware during apartment tours with unfamiliar prospects, walking vacant units or model apartments alone, property inspections in isolated areas, late afternoon or evening showings, and any situation where you're alone with someone you don't know.
Let a colleague know when you're showing a vacant unit. Keep your device accessible (not buried in a bag). Trust your instincts — if something feels off, leave the situation and activate your device if necessary.
After an Activation
If you activate your device in an emergency, stay on the line and tell the dispatcher your location and what's happening if you can. Once safe, notify your supervisor and file an incident report per your company's protocol. Contact PanicTap support if you need any device assistance afterward.
If you accidentally activate the device, stay on the line and clearly tell the dispatcher it was an accident, along with your name and location. Remember you won't hear them reply unless two-way audio is on. You should also email support@panictap.com to let us know there was an accidental activation.
Please don't press the button just to see if it works, since that places a real 911 call. If your organization wants to run a live test, contact your local 911 center ahead of time to arrange it with them.
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