Safety terms, explained
What the safety features on your phone and in safety apps actually do, how they work, and where they fall short. Short, honest definitions from the Holler team.
Breadcrumb trail
A GPS breadcrumb trail is the line of past positions behind your live dot. What it shows, why searchers value it, and why it has gaps.
Check-in timer
A check-in timer alerts someone if you don't confirm you're safe by a set time. How safety timers work, examples, limits, and how to set one.
Crash detection
Crash detection uses motion sensors to spot a likely crash and ask if you are OK. How phones, watches and apps do it, and the limits to know.
Fall detection
Fall detection uses wrist or phone sensors to notice a hard fall and call for help if you stay still. How it works, who it suits, and its limits.
ICE contact
What an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact is, how responders find it, why a locked phone hides it, and how to set one up properly.
Live location sharing
Live location sharing sends your position to chosen people as it changes. How it works, when it helps on a run or ride, and where it falls short.
Medical ID
What a Medical ID is on iPhone and Android, what first responders can see from your lock screen, what to include, and its limits outdoors.
Overdue alert
An overdue alert tells your contacts you missed your planned return time. How it works for hikers and runners, what to include, and what to do next.
Safety contact (Guardian)
A safety contact follows your outing and acts if you're late or ask for help. How that differs from an emergency or ICE contact, and who to pick.
SOS alert
An SOS alert is a one-tap call for help. What phone Emergency SOS does, how an app SOS to your contacts differs, and when to use each.
Stationary alert
A stationary alert warns your contacts if you stop moving for too long and don't answer. How it works, how to pick a time, and its limits.
Want the full picture? Read the guides or browse safety answers.