Photo: © AdobeStock 672917213 | How to Ask for Help Discreetly While Traveling: The Hand Signal, Angel Shot, and Other SOS Signs

How to Ask for Help Discreetly While Traveling: The Hand Signal, Angel Shot, and Other SOS Signs

Nikoleta Hristova Travel Tips 09 May 2025

Travel brings inspiration, freedom, and new horizons. But especially for women traveling alone, it can also carry certain risks. That’s why knowing key distress signals and personal safety techniques can make all the difference between an uncomfortable situation and timely protection.

This article explores practical safety tips, the universal hand signal that could save you, and what exactly an Angel Shot means—a discreet code used in many bars around the world to let staff know you need help. You'll also learn about SOS signals you can use when you can’t speak and discover emergency numbers across Europe and beyond.

The Universal Hand Signal: “I Need Help”

The Signal for Help hand gesture was created for situations where someone is unable to speak openly. It’s used by women around the world in cases of harassment, threats, or discomfort.

How to do it:

Raise one hand with the palm facing outward (like a wave).
Fold your thumb inward, across your palm.
Fold the remaining fingers down over the thumb, effectively “trapping” it inside your palm.

The gesture is subtle and can be shown on video or in person without drawing much attention from those nearby.

What Is an Angel Shot? All Known Variants Explained

The Angel Shot is a secret safety code commonly used in bars and restaurants that allows guests—usually women—to discreetly ask for help when they feel unsafe.

When you say to the bartender, “I’d like an Angel Shot,” you’re alerting staff that you need assistance. There are several variations of the Angel Shot that indicate different levels of urgency:

Angel Shot – Straight Up: Staff will walk you to your car, taxi, or exit.
Angel Shot – With Ice: A cab or ride service (like Uber) will be called for you.
Angel Shot – With Lime: Staff will call the police immediately.
Angel Shot – Neat: You need to be taken somewhere private to talk with staff.
Angel Shot – Dirty: Emergency intervention is required, possibly involving security.
Angel Shot – Blended: You want to discreetly blend in with a group or be escorted out with subtlety.

💡 Tip: Even if a venue doesn’t officially advertise Angel Shot protocols, many staff members are familiar with the code. Use it calmly but firmly.

SOS Signals When You Can’t Speak

If you’re in danger but can’t speak, you can use nonverbal SOS signals that are globally recognized. These work with tapping, flashing lights, or sound:

Three short knocks or taps (on a wall, floor, or object) – repeated with pauses between sets. This is a standard distress signal.
Three flashes using your phone’s flashlight – turn the flash on and off three times quickly. If possible, repeat the cycle.
Three shouts or noises – three short, consistent sounds to attract attention.
Morse Code SOS (● ● ● — — — ● ● ●) – use a flashlight to send this classic distress code.

These signals are useful during kidnappings, being locked somewhere, or situations where speaking could worsen the danger. It’s a good idea to share these with loved ones so they know how to recognize a silent call for help.

Emergency Numbers Around the World: It’s Not Always 911

When traveling abroad, it’s important to know that 911 doesn’t work everywhere. While it’s the emergency number in the U.S. and Canada, each country has its own emergency contacts for police, medical, or fire services. Here are some of the most commonly used:

USA & Canada: 911
European Union (all countries): 112 – universal emergency number
UK: 999 or 112
Australia: 000
New Zealand: 111
Japan: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance & fire)
China: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire)
Mexico: 911
Turkey: 112
Brazil: 190 (police), 192 (ambulance), 193 (fire)

Pro tip: Before visiting a new country, save the emergency number in your phone or write it on a note in your wallet or luggage. It could be life-saving.

Smart Travel Safety Tips

Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member – where you’re going, who you’re with, and when you expect to return.
Avoid posting real-time location updates on social media.
Keep copies of your ID and documents – both printed and stored in the cloud.
Keep your phone charged and carry a power bank.
Only use trusted and highly-rated accommodations and transportation.
Be mindful of alcohol intake, especially when alone.
If something feels off – leave. Your intuition is rarely wrong.

Travel Smart, Stay Safe

Traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone. Tools like the Angel Shot and the hand signal for help can be your silent but powerful allies. Stay informed, confident, and prepared—so you can enjoy every journey with peace of mind.

Your adventure deserves to be not just exciting, but safe.