How to choose a primary and backup contact
Two names do not create availability. How to choose a primary and a backup contact: a clear task, agreed channels, stated limits and consent.
Read the guideGuides for staying close, not watching each other.
Practical steps, verifiable sources and transparent comparisons.
Latest articles
Choosing recipients during an urgent moment adds decisions
Choosing now versus prepared recipients: decisions, consent, availability, contact maintenance and a backup channel.
Read the guideSevere cold and an older person living alone: phone, contacts and a backup plan
Prepare the home, contacts and alternative channels during severe cold, using observable triggers and clear limits.
Read the guideDaily walk: live location or a return message?
Choose the minimum data for a walk by consent: timing, check-in, temporary location, missed return and backup.
Read the guideEncryption and personal safety are not the same thing
WhatsApp E2EE, Telegram Cloud and Secret Chats: data protection, usability, response, roles and backup.
Read the guideEvening check-in for an older person living alone: chat or reminder?
How to choose between an evening message and a reply-based reminder: timing, consent, sleep, silence, no reply and backup.
Read the guideFamily locator or voluntary check-in?
Continuous tracking, temporary map or point-in-time confirmation: consent, minimisation, autonomy, duration, revocation and limits.
Read the guideWhen the primary family contact is at work
Work hours, declared unavailability and handover without a permanent answer duty.
Read the guideEssential family safety plan: a session of about 20 minutes
Twenty minutes may be enough for a first draft when everyone arrives prepared, but it is not a promise for every family.
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