The present invention relates to a personal safety alarm and light that can either be worn by a user or concealed in a handbag. There are numerous occasions when a person may find himself or herself alone in areas or situations where he/she is the potential target of attacks. For example, there have been many reported cases of muggings in darkened parking lots and garages and against joggers running alone. The carrying of chemicals intended to disable an attacker may not be a totally satisfactory solution to this problem since there is a potential that the chemical can be used against the carrier. In addition, there are numerous occasions when a person simply needs a handy flashlight.
The prior art includes a number of devices designed to illuminate the interior of a lady's purse or pocketbook. Examples of such devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,742,438; 4,654,763; and 4,638,412. The prior art also includes anti-theft devices for handbags that generate both an audible and visual alarm upon unauthorized attempts to open the handbag. An example of such a device is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,118,692.
The present invention combines the features of a portable audible and visual alarm that can be activated in a threatening situation and which, in addition, can function as a flashlight.