Going out alone? Set a timer for when you're back
A solo hike, a long drive, a trip where no one's expecting you. Arm a free countdown before you go and stop it when you're safe. Miss it, and your people are asked to check on you.
A backstop for when you're off the grid
Solo adventures are some of the best — and the ones where a small mishap can go unnoticed the longest. A twisted ankle on a quiet trail, a breakdown on an empty road, or a plan that changes without anyone knowing. Welfare Check gives you a simple way to make sure someone is prompted to look for you if you don't come back on time.
Before you set out, arm a countdown a bit longer than you expect to be out of contact and add a couple of people who should know your plans. When you're back in signal, you stop it. If the timer runs out, those contacts get a short note saying you set a welfare check for this trip and didn't stop it — a clear cue to reach you or call for help.
Because the timer lives on our servers, it keeps counting even where your phone has no bars. It's free and separate from DeathNote's final message delivery — a missed check just asks someone to check on you, nothing more.
Why a welfare timer helps here
No one's tracking your route
When plans are loose and you're solo, a timer is the simplest way to flag a no-show.
Trails and dead zones
The countdown runs server-side, so it works even when you have no signal to check in.
Matches your trip
Set hours for a day hike or a custom length for a longer haul, and re-arm at each stop.
The right people know
Pick contacts who know roughly where you went and can act fast if the note arrives.
Stop it when you land
Back in signal and safe? One tap clears it. Forget, and the nudge goes out for you.
A backstop, not a beacon
Pair it with a satellite messenger for the backcountry; use it free for everyday solo outings.
Common questions
How do I use a welfare check for a solo hike or trip?
Before you head out, arm a countdown for a little longer than you expect to be out of contact — the drive home, the trail, the flight. When you're back in signal, stop it. If you don't, the people you chose are emailed to check on you and can raise the alarm.
It works even if I have no signal on the trail?
Yes. The timer runs on our servers, not your phone. You only need signal to stop it when you're safely back. If you never get a chance to stop it, the note goes out automatically.
Is this a substitute for a satellite messenger or PLB?
No. For remote backcountry or genuine emergencies, a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon with GPS is the right tool. Welfare Check is a free, simple backstop that tells people you trust to check on you if you don't return on time.
Can I set a custom length for a multi-day trip?
Yes. Pick 1, 6, 12, or 24 hours, or enter a custom length up to 90 days, so the window matches your trip. You can stop and re-arm it at each check-in point along the way.
Set up your Welfare Check
Free, under a minute, and you can stop or restart it whenever you like.