Beginning in May, women who are victims of violence in Poços de Caldas will be able to utilize a new panic button feature installed on their mobile phones. This initiative is part of the efforts by the Municipal Guard's Maria da Penha Patrol, which was established in January to better assist women who require protective measures against domestic violence. The tool aims to provide a quick and effective means of communication with authorities during emergencies, reflecting an increasing focus on combating domestic violence in Brazil.

According to data from the Secretary of State for Security and Justice of Minas Gerais (Sejusp), a significant number of incidents of domestic violence have been reported in Poços de Caldas, with 1,649 women being victims in 2025 alone. This alarming statistic underscores the dire need for enhanced protective measures for women in the area. The panic button's functionality is modeled after similar systems already in place in schools and childcare centers, where rapid alerts can summon municipal guard assistance in critical situations.

The implementation of panic buttons specifically for individuals under protective measures represents a tailored approach to addressing the specific vulnerabilities faced by these women. GCM Dulcirlener Aparecida Inez notes that the panic button system for women in need of protection will operate similarly to those in educational institutions, reinforcing the commitment of local authorities to ensure the safety of women experiencing violence. This marks a vital step forward in protective services, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of immediate responses to domestic violence incidents.