panic button

noun

1. an alarm button for use in an emergency, as to summon help.

Idioms

2. push/hit/press the panic button, Informal. to give way to panic in a distressing situation.

noun

1. a button or switch that operates any of various safety devices, for use in an emergency
2. hit the panic button or press the panic button informal to react to a situation by demanding emergency action; become excited; panic