Cheshire Police is encouraging the public to download a free safety app for added protection this winter. 

By transforming your smartphone into a personal safety device, Hollie Guard can be used in a wide range of situations where a user feels unsafe or finds themselves in any danger.

The app was developed in memory of 20-year-old Hollie Gazzard, who was murdered by her ex-partner in 2014. Prior to her death, Hollie had experienced stalking and domestic abuse.

Hollie Guard is designed for everyone, regardless of gender or age.

The user simply shakes their phone to activate the app, which immediately sends an alert to their emergency contact, shares their live location and begins recording video and audio evidence.

A second shake activates a high-pitched alarm and flashing strobe lights, helping draw attention and potentially deter an attacker.  

Detective Inspector from the Force's vulnerability and safeguarding team, Amanda Antrobus, said: "With the darker months now upon us, we understand that many people can feel less confident when travelling alone or moving around in low-light conditions.  

"Protecting our community and helping people stay safe is a responsibility the Constabulary takes really seriously.

"Hollie Guard is a powerful tool and anything that helps someone get support more quickly or feel more confident when they are out and about is something we fully support and encourage you to use."

The app also has a journey feature which allows users to set a start and end point for their trip.

The app actively monitors the journey and alerts the users nominated emergency contact once they arrive safely. If the user deviates from the route, does not arrive on time, or triggers a panic alert, their contact is immediately notified with their live location.  

For people who are alone, working remotely or unable to manually activate an alert, there is a 'man down' feature, which uses the phone's internal sensors to detect sudden impact or a prolonged lack of movement.

If a fall or period of inactivity is detected, an alert is automatically raised and shared with emergency contacts.  

When an alert is triggered, the app automatically activates the phones cameras and microphone to capture video and audio evidence. This date is securely stored and can be reviewed later, including in police proceedings if required.   

Hollie Guard is free to download on both iOS and Android, with optional enhanced features available through Hollie Guard Extra.  

You can visit here for more information.