Flare: a cycling app that could save your life?
At Bikmo, we love new cycle-related gadgets and tech so when Kirk, James, and Barry from Flare got in touch we were all ears and excited about what they could achieve. They wanted to build an app which could connect all road users. And, if the worst happens, let those close to you know you’ve been in an accident – and they’ve done it!
The app is super simple to use. All you have to do is sign up for free with your email, open up the Flare app, press the start button, add an emergency contact and you’re done. It’ll be working at all times in the background. It means you don’t have to worry about turning it on every time you want to ride.
In the first weekend of it’s ‘soft launch’. Flare got hundreds of sign-ups, including one member who unfortunately had an accident a mere two days after download. Thankfully, as he had Flare downloaded, the accident was reported and Flare sent a message to his next of kin instantly. Since then the app has helped more cyclists who have been involved in road accidents.
How it works
Once you’ve signed up to Flare and you’re riding your bike. You’ll probably be wondering how on Earth this app could one day save your life. After speaking to the Flare team, I’ve put together a 5 step guide below so you’re in the know.
- The G-force your accident creates will be recorded by your phone. Which Flare will then use to interpret whether you’ve been in an accident.
- It’ll then create an alarm noise from your phone, and the incident screen which is pictured above [far right] above will pop up.
- If you’re badly hurt, you won’t be able to cancel the alarm and Flare will know you’re in danger. Notifying your emergency contact using the details you entered.
- When notifying your emergency contact, Flare will also send your phone’s location so you can be easily found.
- If your emergency contact cares about you enough they’ll come and find you while ringing the emergency services. Then, hopefully, you’ll be saved!
There’s more to come
They’re always striving to make Flare into the perfect cycling buddy. They have a few more cool editions to announce soon. Including GroupRide for those who cycle with clubs or friends. The app will let the rest of the group know when someone has dropped off the back of the chain gang. Or, if anyone’s had an accident, so you don’t leave anyone behind. Make sure you spread the word with your local cycling clubs.
It doesn’t stop there, they’re making the app accessible to other road users. Especially with big corporations who have lots of vehicles on the road. Flare can tell their drivers to watch out as you’re cycling nearby.
Making life easier
It was a no brainer for me, my family won’t stop nagging me about my safety on the roads… helmet… reflective’s… check, and I can happily say Flare… check. Now they don’t have to worry when I decide to add some more miles on the route.
It’s super easy to get this sophisticated bit of tech, all you have to do is follow the link here and download the app for free – so you have no excuse for not giving it a try!
