When You Need Help: 6 Ways to Signal for Assistance

Sometimes, people find themselves in dangerous situations where they can’t ask for help out loud. Whether it’s domestic violence, a threatening encounter, or another emergency, knowing how to discreetly signal for help can be life-saving.

Fortunately, there are internationally recognized signals and coded phrases designed to alert others to danger—without drawing unwanted attention. Learning these signals is an essential life skill that teaches situational awareness and personal safety strategies. Here’s what you need to know.

International Distress Signals

The “I Need Help” Gesture

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This is the most well-known and easy-to-use signal:

• Face your palm toward someone.
• Tuck your thumb into your palm.
• Fold your fingers down over the thumb.
• Repeat the movement if needed.

This gesture is widely recognized as a silent way to ask for help in situations of domestic abuse, abduction, coercion, or other emergencies. It’s particularly effective because it can be done casually in conversation, on a video call, or from a distance without arousing suspicion.

The “Black Dot” Symbol

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Though less commonly known, another way to signal distress is by drawing a small black dot on the palm of your hand. If you see someone displaying this mark, don’t ignore it—it may be a plea for help.

How to Signal for Help in Public

Ordering an “Angel Shot”

In many American bars, asking for an “Angel Shot” is a discreet way to get help. Bartenders are trained to recognize this code and will assist by calling security, a taxi, or even the police, depending on the situation.

Tip: If you’re ever feeling unsafe at a restaurant, bar, or event, you can also ask a staff member a question like “Can you call me a cab?” or “Where’s the manager?” as a way to seek help.

“Ask for Angela” (UK)

In the UK, the “Ask for Angela” initiative allows people in distress to seek help at participating bars and venues. Simply asking, “Is Angela here?” signals to staff that you need assistance—whether it’s a safe way home or emergency support.

How to Seek Help If You’re at Home

“Ordering a Pizza”

In emergency situations, some people have successfully called 911 while pretending to order food. If an operator suspects distress, they may ask “Are you in danger?” to confirm.

Tip: If you can’t talk, try pressing keys or making nonverbal noises to indicate an emergency.

Adding a Note to a Delivery Order

Some food delivery and ride-share apps allow users to add special instructions when placing an order. In an emergency, a discreet message like “Please call 911” can alert a driver or dispatcher.

Emergency Hotlines in the U.S.

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If you or someone you know is in danger, these resources are available 24/7:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233 or text “START” to 88788
• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 800-4-A-CHILD (800-422-4453)
• National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673)
• Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741
• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888
• National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV): 1-303-839-1852

What to Do If You See a Distress Signal

If someone shows you the Signal for Help or another distress sign, it’s crucial to take it seriously—even if you’re unsure what it means.

• Observe the situation. Are they alone? Does the person seem afraid or controlled?
• Call 911, describe what you saw and provide as much detail as possible.
• Stay with the person if possible. If they seem unsafe, help them move to a public place like a coffee shop, store, or police station.
• Document evidence. If appropriate, record a video or take photos that might help law enforcement.
• If a child signals for help, ask if they know the person they’re with. This can help determine if they’re in danger.

Knowing these signals could save a life. Share this information with your family and friends, it’s important that everyone recognizes the silent ways people ask for help.

Being prepared doesn’t mean living in fear—it means equipping yourself and others with the knowledge to stay safe.