Problem addressed

In many public institutions — such as universities, schools, and hospitals, as well as in hotels, shopping malls and similar places - emergency evacuation procedures, though formally established, often encounter significant challenges when put into practice. People who are excluded or need additional support are particularly vulnerable during such emergencies. 

Despite the sincere efforts of public and private institutions to improve evacuation protocols and enhance safety, there is currently a lack of simple, reliable solutions available on the market. In dangerous situations Deaf individals must rely on ambient or visual signals, which are seldom paired with audible fire alarms. Some people may ignore alarms, unsure whether it’s merely a test or they may already be affected by smoke or unconscious, and therefore unable to respond.

Furthermore, Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, as well as those living alone and needing emergency assistance, are often left without help — even in their own homes, which should be their safest refuge.

Innovative solution

That’s where AllarmAlly steps in.

AlarmAlly is a free mobile app compatibile with both Android and IOS systems, as well as most wearable devices. Powered by artificial intelligence, the app detects the unique acoustic signature of fire alarms and immediately alerts the user through customisable vibrations and/or flashing lights. If no user response is registered, a pre-selected support person (such as a friend, parent, or safety officer) will be notified.

The app requires no additional devices - just your phone. Compared to similar features built into some phone models, AlarmAlly is more reliable - its operation has been tested under various conditions by Deaf, hard of hearing, and healthy people. The simple interface was designed in accordance with accessibility regulations, making it easy to use and intuitive. 

AlarmAlly has its own landing page, where user manuals and installation instructions in Polish Sign Language are available.

The solution was developed as a micro-innovation by Marcin Kotliński, Polish innovator-programmer with funding from the ESF. The project is currently supported by the ESF+ and is moving forward through the acceleration process. 

Key results and benefits

✅ Precise detection of fire alarm sounds using AI algorithms

✅ Customised alerts: vibrations, light signals – or both

✅ Privacy first: no data collection or storage

✅ Secure: hosted on Swiss servers, developed in Europe

✅ No ads, no distractions – completely free to use

✅ Compatible with Android, iOS & wearable devices

✅ Simple, user-tested interface

✅ Available in Polish Sign Language (PJM)

✅ Scalable internationally

Potential for mainstreaming

The innovation is compatible with both Android and iOS systems, and is designed to be easily scalable on an international level. The application is available in GooglePlay and Apple stores. At the moment, a test version of the application in Polish is available and to receive it, the user must provide the e-mail, and the application operator will add it to the list of testers. Expanding the availability of the application in other languages ​​will be relatively easy.