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SourceThe sound that repels troublemakers
A device emitting a soundwave which is designed to drive young troublemakers away from a problem area of Swindon has been hailed as a success. Listen to the sound online.
The 'Mosquito' sonic deterrent device was installed by the Wyvern Theatre in an attempt to stop groups of up to 100 youngsters from gathering around Theatre Square.
It was named the 'Mosquito' because the sound resembles that of a buzzing insect. And it works by emitting a harmless ultra sonic tone that generally can only be heard by people aged 25 and under. In trials, it has proven that the longer someone is exposed to the sound, the more annoying it becomes.
Crime Reduction Officer Bob Walton elaborated further: "Effectively, it's a transmitter which sends out a specialised frequency noise which according to the manufacture is particularly audible to young people under the age of 25.
He said: "I'm in my fifties and when it's turned on all I can hear is a very faint buzz. But I understand from young people who have been exposed to the noise, it is very annoying."
Swindon's anti-social behaviour co-ordinator Cheri Wright says it is working well.
She said: "We had a meeting with local retailers arounds here - after it had been installed for around three weeks - and feedback was really positive.
"Everyone was saying there has been a marked reduction in criminal damage and problems with the shops, so they've really welcomed it."
Click the link below to listen to an MP3 of the 'Mosquito' sonic deterrent soundwave to see if you are susceptible or not.
Hear the track here.
I must say I couldn't hear a damn thing, but my ear drums are actually aching at the minute.
I found this online sound test which goes through the ranges of frequency.
The highest I could hear was 21.1 kHz. What's yours?
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