With all the crime reports in the news, you're never too safe. We round up five essential apps you should install to help you feel that much safer in KL.

MyDistress
The app is operated by PDRM and attempts to speed up communication between the public and the police in the event of an attack. Press the SOS button on the app, your location is detected, the police are notified and a dispatch unit will come running your way. More than 70,000 smart phones users have already signed up. (Free, compatible with iOS, Android, Blackberry and Windows Phone. mydistress.net)

Malaysia Crime
Designed as a precautionary tool, the app chronicles the latest crime reports in the area closest to you. The news on the homescreen is designed to churn out stories and alerts much like a Twitter timeline would. You can filter searches according to area to study the trend of crime reports in your neighbourhood. The ‘newsfeed’ can be quite distressing if you read all the snippets consecutively but hey, reality is harsh. (Free, compatible with iOS and Android. More info here)

MyTeksi
We sometimes find ourselves alone in obscure areas where taxi stands are inexistent and moments like these are when this app comes to play. It works like this: you launch the app, your area is detected and after a few clicks, a taxi is on the way to you. It sure beats the scary journey to the nearest highway or mall. If you’re out of range or don’t have a smartphone, send a text message to 36881 with your pick-up and drop-off details. If you feel safer inside a building, send in your preferences to the same number and the taxi driver will notify you when he/she has arrived. (Free, compatible with iOS and Android. Myteksi.com)

1Malaysia Hotlines
This is the app version of the Yellow Pages. You’ll find hotlines connecting to emergency services, hospitals, workshops (for when your car breaks down), police, transport companies and local authorities. Users can search for contact numbers nationwide. Pretty handy, eh? (Free, compatible with iOS, Android and Windows Phone. More info here)

Shell Motorist
The Shell app is primarily designed to keep users informed of promotions and balance checks. But the feature we’re interested is the fuel station locator. We hear of so many cases of cars getting followed and this app may prove useful in such occasions. Find out where the nearest Shell is and head there to seek refuge if you feel unsafe. (Free, compatible with iOS and Android. More info here)

See more features on how to stay safe in KL.