When emergencies strike, reaching a phone isn’t always possible. That’s where Alexa comes in. With the right setup, this smart assistant can be a valuable tool for fall detection and triggering life alerts. A simple phrase like “Alexa, ask my buddy to send help” can alert your emergency contacts when you need urgent assistance. This article explores how to use your Amazon Alexa as a medical alert system.
Setting up room pairing with Alexa is a crucial first step.
While Alexa, paired with an Echo device and the SOS My Family app on your phone or smartwatch, offers basic medical alert functionality, it’s important to note that it wasn’t designed to replace dedicated medical alert systems. Think of it as a helpful addition to your safety net.
Alexa: A Lifesaving Tool
Amazon’s Alexa has been credited with saving lives in various situations. One user, Dante McNulty, shared with the New York Post, “I would have been lying there for hours if it wasn’t for Alexa… My Alexa saved my life.” Beyond personal anecdotes, Amazon has documented numerous instances where Alexa played a crucial role in emergencies, from falls to medical episodes. One employee even described how Alexa facilitated communication and assistance during a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Woman checks smartwatch. Photo by Luke Chesser on Unsplash
Setting Up Your Amazon Echo for Emergency Alerts
Before diving into using Alexa for medical alerts, ensure your Echo device is properly set up.
- Download the Alexa App: Install the Alexa app on your smartphone or smartwatch from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple Store (iOS).
- Add Your Echo Device: Open the app, navigate to “More,” then “Add Device,” and select your Amazon Echo model.
- Power Up Your Echo: Plug in your Echo. An orange light indicates it’s in setup mode.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Follow the in-app instructions to connect your Echo to your Wi-Fi network.
- Assign a Room: Specify the room where your Echo is located within the app. This helps with voice commands and organization.
Connecting your Echo to Wi-Fi is essential for its functionality.
Utilizing the My SOS Family App with Alexa
The My SOS Family app enhances Alexa’s life alert capabilities. It allows you to share your location, alert family and friends in emergencies, and even perform regular check-ins. Here’s why it stands out:
- Pre-defined Emergency Contacts: Simultaneously call and message pre-selected contacts in an emergency.
- GPS Location Sharing: Alerts include your GPS coordinates, enabling quick assistance.
- SOS Countdown Timer: Set automatic check-in intervals for peace of mind.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple setup and operation, especially for emergencies.
- No Wi-Fi Required for Responders: Contacts can receive alerts even without Wi-Fi.
- Unlimited Responders: Add as many contacts as necessary to your emergency network.
My SOS Family – Emergency Alert App
Subscription Costs:
- Monthly: $3.49 (US), £3.49 (GB)
- Annual: $33.99 (US), £33.99 (GB)
Setting up My SOS Family with Alexa:
- Download and install the My SOS Family app.
- Create an account.
- Add your emergency contact number.
Linking to Alexa:
- Open the Alexa app and go to “Skills.”
- Search for and enable “My SOS Family.”
- Enter your My SOS Family login credentials.
- Link your emergency contact number and confirm.
Using in an Emergency: Say “Alexa, open My SOS Family and send for help.”
Can Alexa Directly Call 911?
While Alexa can’t directly dial 911, it can connect to emergency services through devices like the Echo Connect or third-party apps like My SOS Family. The Echo Connect syncs your phone contacts with Alexa, enabling voice-activated calling. Apps like My SOS Family offer similar functionality, alerting your personal emergency network.
Final Thoughts
My SOS Family, combined with Amazon Echo, provides a cost-effective solution for basic medical alerts and staying connected with loved ones. While not a replacement for professional medical alert systems, it offers an added layer of security, particularly for those who might not always have immediate access to a phone. For more comprehensive solutions, consider dedicated medical alert devices or smartwatches with built-in emergency features.
