Step 1: Open up your kit and make sure it includes:
(1) 2 pieces 10 in. 22-gage wire
(2) 1 Siren
(3) 1 9V battery
(4) 1 push on/push off switch
(5) 1 snap connector
(6) 1 piece 6 in. heat shrink tubing
(7) 1 Platforms sticker

Or, you can purchase your own supplies:
(1) 2 pieces 10 in. 22-gage wire: available from RadioShack and many other stores, you can also use speaker wire
(2) 1 Siren: available from RadioShack
(3) 1 9V battery: available from RadioShack and many other stores
(4) 1 push on/push off switch: available from RadioShack
(5) 1 9V snap connector: available from RadioShack
(6) 1 piece 6 in. long heat shrink tubing (3/16 width): available from RadioShack

*RadioShack is often pricey. You can get similar parts for cheaper from electronics surplus stores like All Electronics and Electronic Goldmine -- you just have to check and see what they've got in stock.

Step 2: Using scissors or a mat knife, cut the heat shrink tubing (6) evenly into 5 pieces.

Step 3: Strip the ends of the 22-gage wire (1), the snap connector (5), and the siren (2) so that 1/2 to 5/8 in. of wire is exposed.

Step 4: Place one piece of heat shrink tubing (6) over the black wire from the siren (2), then twist the black wire from the snap connector (5) to the black wire on the siren. Fold the twisted wire back on itself, then slide the piece of heat shrink tubing over the twisted wire.

Step 5: Use a lighter or heat gun to shrink the tubing around your connection. Move the flame quickly back and forth. Don't let it rest in any one spot -- you want to heat it, not burn it. Once it has shrunk and cooled, pull gently on the wires to make sure that you have a secure connection.

Step 6: Using the same method, connect 1 piece of 22-gage wire (1) to the red wire on the siren (2). Connect the other piece of 22-gage wire to the red wire on the snap connector (5).

Step 7: Connect both pieces of the 22-gage wire to the switch (4) with heat shrink tubing. Thread the exposed wire ends through the holes in the metal switch terminals, then twist. Slide the heat shrink tubing up and shrink it around the terminals.

Step 8: Connect the 9V battery to the snap connector. Gently touch the connector to the battery before snapping in. If the siren goes off, press the switch once to turn it off, then snap the battery and connector together. Now test your alarm – it should go off when you press the switch, and stay on, until you press it again. It should also be really, really loud.

Congratulations! Your audible alarm can be used ‘as is,’ you can also sew it into a purse or jacket. As the battery wears down, the alarm will get quieter, so be sure to test it before you go out.

For info on purchasing Platforms: DIY audible alarm kits, email us at
info AT theaphroditeproject DOT tv.