Could Tools Like Proxi Actually Change How We Approach Safety and Connection

[Samuel Walker]

Hey everyone, I recently came across a public profile on Melinda Haughey, co‑founder of Proxi, and wanted to start a conversation here about personal safety apps and how tech platforms are shaping the way we think about safety, connection, and community. Based on publicly available interviews and bios, Melinda helped build Proxi with the idea that everyday personal safety shouldn’t be stressful or stigmatized, but easy, supportive, and integrated into daily life. The app lets users share their real‑time location with trusted contacts when they’re out and about, request check‑ins, alert people if they feel unsafe, or quietly call for help — all with the aim of giving users peace of mind without making every outing feel like a high‑alert situation.

What struck me most from the profile was the way Proxi frames safety not as something only used in emergencies but as part of everyday life — like walking to your car after work, going on a first date, or letting family know you made it home. I’m curious if anyone here has used Proxi or similar personal safety tools, and what your experience was like. Do features like live check‑ins, instant alerts, or trusted contact lists genuinely make you feel safer or more connected? And how do you think these kinds of apps compare with other approaches to safety, whether tech‑based or personal practices?

 

[john smith]

I’ve used safety apps like this a few times, and even if I never end up needing a real alert, just having someone know where I am comfortably makes a difference. The key for me is that it feels natural to use without being invasive or dramatic.

 

[Ella Green]

I downloaded a similar app once when I started a night‑shift job. It gave me peace of mind knowing family could check up on me without calling every hour. I think the people‑centric design makes safety less intimidating.

 

[Rowan Blake]

I haven’t used Proxi, but I’ve seen it mentioned on social. For me, it matters that alerts and check‑ins aren’t overcomplicated — if it takes too many taps to use, people won’t rely on it when they actually need it.