The decibel (dB) is a unit of measurement for sound intensity. It is a logarithmic scale, so a 10-dB increase in sound level is a tenfold increase in the intensity of the sound. This means that a sound that is 100 dB is 10 times more intense than a sound that is 90 dB.
The decibel levels of common things can vary depending on the make and model, so it is always best to check the specifications before purchasing. It is also important to note that decibels are not the only factor that determines how loud a sound is perceived. The distance from the source of the sound, the type of surface the sound is traveling through, and the presence of other sounds can all affect how loud a sound is perceived.
dB Charts
Here is a listing of the decibels (dB) of common things and security devices:
Common Things
- Whisper: 20-30 dB
- Normal conversation: 60-70 dB
- Applause: 60-70 dB
- Vacuum cleaner: 70-80 dB
- Baby crying: 80-90 dB
- Gas lawnmower: 90-100 dB
- Live music: 90-110 dB
- Jackhammer, Power saw, Chainsaw: 100-110 dB
- Air raid siren: 120 dB
- Jet takeoff, Thunder: 120-140 dB
- Firecracker: 130-150 dB
- Gunshot: 140-160 dB
Security Devices
- Doorbell: 70-80 dB
- Motion sensor: 90-100 dB
- Burglar alarm: 100-115 dB
- Glass break alarm: 100-120 dB
- Window alarm: 120 dB
- Siren: 120-140 dB
- 2-in-1 120dB Personal & Burglar Alarm
- Mini Personal Alarm with LED flashlight 120dB
- SAL 95 Million volt Stun Gun with 120 dB Alarm and Flashlight
- Cell Phone Stun Gun Rechargeable 120dB Alarm
- MultiGuard 80 Million volt Rechargeable Stun Gun with 120 dB Alarm and Flashlight
- 3-in-1 130db Personal Alarm With Light
- Keychain 130dB Alarm with Light
- Personal Panic Alarm 130dB and Strobe
- Triad 27 Million volt Stun Gun 130dB Alarm
- Air horn: 129 dB
It is important to note that decibels are a logarithmic scale, so a 10-dB increase in sound level is a tenfold increase in the intensity of the sound. This means that a sound that is 100 dB is 10 times more intense than a sound that is 90 dB.
The decibel levels of these devices can vary depending on the make and model, so it is always best to check the specifications before purchasing. It is also important to note that decibels are not the only factor that determines how loud a sound is perceived. The distance from the source of the sound, the type of surface the sound is traveling through, and the presence of other sounds can all affect how loud a sound is.
Exposure to loud noises can damage your hearing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits on the amount of noise that workers can be exposed to. For example, workers cannot be exposed to noise levels above 90 dB for more than eight hours per day.
If you are exposed to loud noises, it is important to take steps to protect your hearing. You can do this by wearing earplugs or earmuffs. You can also try to stay away from the source of the noise.
If you are concerned about your hearing, you should see a doctor. They can test your hearing and recommend treatment if necessary.
Other dB Information
Here are some additional details about decibels and how they affect hearing:
- Decibels (dB) are a unit of measurement for sound intensity. They are a logarithmic scale, which means that a 10-dB increase in sound level is a tenfold increase in the intensity of the sound.
- The softest sound that a human can hear is about 0 dB. The loudest sound that a human can hear without pain is about 120 dB.
- Noise exposure above 85 dB can damage hearing over time. The louder the noise, the shorter the amount of time it takes to damage hearing.
- Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. There is no cure.
- The best way to protect your hearing from noise is to wear earplugs or earmuffs when you are exposed to loud noise. You can also reduce your exposure to loud noise by moving away from the source of the noise or by turning down the volume.
Can a Personal Alarm Protect You?
Personal alarms are small, portable devices that emit a loud noise when activated. They are designed to deter and alert others to a potential attack. Personal alarms can be a valuable tool for personal safety, but they are not a guarantee of protection.
Here are some of the ways that personal alarms can protect you:
- Deter attackers. The loud noise from a personal alarm can startle and scare away an attacker, giving you time to escape.
- Alert others. The loud noise from a personal alarm can attract attention from others, which can deter an attacker or help you get help.
- Provide peace of mind. Knowing that you have a personal alarm with you can give you peace of mind, especially in potentially dangerous situations.
It is important to use personal alarms in conjunction with other safety and security measures, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dangerous situations, and carrying other self-defense weapons.
Here are some tips for using personal alarms safely:
- Choose a personal alarm that is loud enough to be effective. The noise level of personal alarms can vary, so it is important to choose one that is loud enough to be heard over other noise.
- Keep your personal alarm with you at all times. Personal alarms are most effective when they are easily accessible.
- Test your personal alarm regularly to make sure it is working properly.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Personal alarms are most effective when they are used in conjunction with other safety measures, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding dangerous situations.
Personal alarms can be a valuable tool for personal safety, but they are not a guarantee of protection. It is important to use personal alarms in conjunction with other safety measures and to be aware of their limitations.
Are Personal Alarms Good for Children?
Personal alarms can be a good option for children, but it is important to choose one that is appropriate for their age and size. Personal alarms should not be used as a replacement for parental supervision, but they can be a valuable tool for deterring and alerting others to a potential attack.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a personal alarm for your child:
- Size and weight: The personal alarm should be small and lightweight enough for your child to carry easily.
- Noise level: The personal alarm should be loud enough to be heard over other noises, but not so loud that it could damage your child’s hearing.
- Features: Some personal alarms have additional features, such as a built-in flashlight or a strobe light. These features can be helpful in certain situations, but they are not essential.
Here are some tips for teaching your child how to use a personal alarm:
- Explain the purpose of the personal alarm. Tell your child that the personal alarm is a tool to help them stay safe.
- Show your child how to use the personal alarm. Make sure they know how to turn it on and off and how to activate the alarm.
- Practice using the personal alarm with your child. This will help them feel comfortable using it in an emergency.
- Teach your child when to use the personal alarm. The personal alarm should be used in situations where your child feels unsafe, such as when they are walking home alone or when they are in a public place.
Personal alarms can be a valuable tool for keeping children safe. By choosing the right alarm and teaching your child how to use it, you can help them stay safe in potentially dangerous situations.
Are Home Burglar Alarms Effective?
Home burglar alarms can be effective in deterring and preventing burglaries. A study by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte found that burglars are deterred by home burglar alarms 60% of the time. The study also found that burglars are more likely to target homes without burglar alarms.
There are a few reasons why home burglar alarms are effective. First, they can startle and scare away burglars. Second, they can alert neighbors and other people in the area to a possible break-in.
However, it is important to note that home burglar alarms are not a guarantee of protection. They can be disabled by burglars, and they may not be effective in all situations. It is important to use home burglar alarms in conjunction with other security measures, such as good locks and strong doors and windows.
Here are some tips for making your home burglar alarm more effective:
- Install a quality home burglar alarm system.
- Place sensors on all entry points to your home.
- Test your home burglar alarm items regularly to make sure they are working properly.
- Consider installing a video surveillance system.
- Keep your home well-lit.
- Trim trees and bushes that could provide cover for burglars.
- Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police.
By following these tips, you can make your home more secure and deter burglars.
As always, be safe and be prepared.