Apple Watch SOS: How to Set Up and Use Emergency Features

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Michael Collins

Sure, your Apple Watch isn’t just a fancy bracelet that counts your steps and lets you read texts without pulling out your phone. It could be a lifesaver too. How? Well, it’s got this feature called SOS which is basically a quick way to call for help if you’re in trouble. Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how you can use it.

Apple Watch SOS Tutorial

Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what you’re going to accomplish here. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll know how to set up and use the SOS feature on your Apple Watch. This could be really important in an emergency situation, so pay attention!

Step 1: Press and hold the side button on your Apple Watch

Just press and keep holding the button on the side of your watch. It’s the one below the little wheel thingy (that’s the Digital Crown, by the way).

When you press and hold the side button, a menu will pop up on your watch screen. You’ll see three options: power off, medical ID, and emergency SOS. Don’t let go of the button!

Step 2: Continue to hold the side button until an alert sounds

Keep holding that button! After a few seconds, you’ll hear a loud alert. That means your Apple Watch is getting ready to call emergency services.

The alert gives you a chance to cancel the SOS call if you’ve pressed the button by accident. If you keep holding the button, your watch will start a countdown. Once it hits zero, it’ll make the call.

Step 3: Wait for the call to connect and speak to the operator

Once the countdown ends, your Apple Watch will automatically call your local emergency services. Hold on until you’re connected, then tell the operator what’s up.

When you’re connected to the emergency services, be clear and calm. Tell them what’s happening and where you are. Your watch will share your location with them, but it doesn’t hurt to say it too.

After you complete the SOS call, your Apple Watch will send a message to your emergency contacts if you’ve set them up. It’ll tell them you’ve made an emergency call and share your current location.

Apple Watch SOS Tips

  • Your Apple Watch needs to be connected to your iPhone or a Wi-Fi network to make an SOS call.
  • You can set up your emergency contacts in the Health app on your iPhone. That way, they’ll get a heads-up if you ever use SOS.
  • If you’re traveling abroad, your Apple Watch will try to call the local emergency number. Handy, right?
  • Keep your Medical ID up to date on your iPhone. First responders can access it from your Apple Watch in an emergency.
  • Practice using SOS in a non-emergency situation. You don’t want to be figuring it out when you’re in real trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Apple Watch SOS feature call 911 without an iPhone?

Yes, if your Apple Watch is connected to Wi-Fi and you’ve set up Wi-Fi calling on your iPhone, it can call 911 without the phone.

Will the SOS feature work if I’m not wearing my Apple Watch?

Nope, your Apple Watch has to be on your wrist and unlocked for SOS to work.

Can I cancel an SOS call if I accidentally start it?

Absolutely. Just release the side button when you see the countdown and tap ‘Cancel’.

Do I need to add credit or a SIM to my Apple Watch for SOS to work?

No, you don’t. The SOS feature works based on your iPhone’s cellular plan or any available Wi-Fi network.

Will my Apple Watch call emergency services if I fall and can’t press the button?

If you have the Apple Watch Series 4 or later, there’s a feature called Fall Detection. It can call emergency services automatically if it detects a hard fall and you don’t move for about a minute.

Summary

  1. Press and hold the side button.
  2. Continue to hold until the alert sounds.
  3. Wait for the call to connect and speak to the operator.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Apple Watch SOS feature is a powerful safety tool that’s right there on your wrist. It’s easy to use and could be crucial in an emergency situation. Remember, it’s not just about knowing how to use it; it’s about being prepared. Make sure your emergency contacts are up to date, and take a moment to familiarize yourself with the SOS feature—just in case. Hopefully, you’ll never need to use it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you took the time to learn about apple watch sos. Stay safe out there, and keep your watch charged – you never know when it might come in handy.