Startups are no longer limited to creating Apps or software-hacking solutions. One startup
has come up with a solution to prevent suicide by hanging.
SafeHalo, a startup, has created a device that is fixed to the ceiling fan. It was among the participating startups at the Elevate 100 event.
“The device is fixed inside the ceiling fan. The device can handle anything less than 20 kg. Once the weight crosses 20 kg, the device ensures that the fan collapses,” said Sumant Nashik, director, software development, SafeHalo.
He said the device had undergone enough tests and was a hit in Kota, Rajasthan, where it was launched. The
Rajasthan government has issued instructions to all hostels to instal this device in their fans.
“We have sold 2,000 devices. It is seen that most of the time, it is students who end lives by hanging themselves. We wanted to address this issue. This device ensures that the person lands safely on the ground and does not injure the spine or neck with the jerk. After breaking, an alarm rings to alert people,” Nashik said.
The company, a team of 11, comprising freshers and some with hands-on experienc, is now working towards launching the device in Karnataka. The team is also working on creating a finer model of a child-safety device. The company is also in talks with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to test the driver safety device, which warns drivers when they feel sleepy.