Inspiration
In light of tragic events in the news recently - especially those involving mass shootings - we found it necessary to establish a way to quickly inform people in harm's way so that they can take proper actions to avoid impending danger.
What it does
Users can text a phone number associated with Safeguard when they witness a safety threat that could potentially harm many people. After users "check in", our backend process does the rest; a web application logs the safety threat and sends a message to other Safeguard users in the area to urge them to leave the area as soon as possible. In addition, the safety threat is logged on an interactive map that can be viewed online. Users may also see statistics such as cities with the most safety threats, the frequency of each type of threat (active shooter, biohazard, explosion, gas leakage, extreme weather), and examine a visualization of safety check-ins collected over the past year.
How we built it
We used Twilio to receive messages from users reporting a safety threat, and built a backend using Python, Flask, and MongoDB to analyze the incoming message for keywords relating to a particular type of safety threat. We also used Twilio to alert nearby Safeguard users of potential danger. Finally, we used JavaScript and the HighCharts API to create a visualization of past data.
Challenges we ran into
We initially found it difficult to work with the map and placing markers where people had checked in.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
We were able to successfully incorporate every feature we set out to include: allowing users to check in, creating an interactive map, using geolocation to message users possibly in danger, and creating a data visualization of users' check-ins.
What we learned
We learned how to use MongoDB to store location data and using Twilio's geolocation feature to pinpoint relevant users to message in the case of an emergency or immediate safety threat.
What's next for Safeguard
We would like to give users specific advice about what to do when Safeguard texts them about a safety threat.
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