Can Alexa call 911 in an emergency? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While Alexa can’t directly dial 911 like a traditional phone, it offers several features that can be crucial in emergency situations. This article explores how Alexa can help in emergencies, compares it with Google Nest’s capabilities, and provides guidance on choosing the best smart assistant for your safety needs.
An Alexa on a nightstand.
Alexa’s Emergency Features
Amazon’s Alexa provides several ways to get help in an emergency:
Alexa Emergency Assist
Alexa Emergency Assist is a subscription service ($5.99/month for Prime members) that allows you to connect with an Urgent Response agent by saying, “Alexa, call for help.” This agent can then dispatch emergency services (police, fire, or ambulance) to your location. Crucially, the agent can also provide first responders with vital information you’ve pre-entered in the Alexa app, such as medical conditions, gate codes, or the presence of pets. They can even pinpoint the specific room the call originated from, thanks to room assignments in the app.
Product image of Alexa Emergency Assist
Drop-In Feature
The Drop-In feature allows you to instantly connect with other Alexa devices in your home, essentially functioning as a two-way intercom. This free feature requires multiple Alexa devices, but affordable options like the Echo Pop make it accessible. You can drop in on specific rooms by assigning names and locations in the Alexa app, enabling quick communication with family members in need. This feature can even be used to connect with speakers in different homes, allowing you to check on loved ones remotely.
Product image of Amazon’s Echo Pop
Calling and Messaging Contacts
While Alexa can’t directly dial 911 without Emergency Assist, it can call pre-programmed contacts with a voice command. This functionality extends to group calling, potentially enabling faster connection with someone who can assist in an emergency.
Google Nest’s Emergency Capabilities
Google Nest offers its own set of emergency features:
Emergency Calling with Nest Aware
Google Nest requires a Nest Aware subscription to enable 911 calling through the Google Home app on your phone. Unlike Alexa, this directly connects you to the nearest 911 call center. However, this feature’s reliance on your phone limits its usefulness in situations where your phone is inaccessible. Nest devices can also detect the sound of smoke or CO alarms and provide a one-tap 911 call button within the Nest app notification.
A Google tablet on a white and yellow background.
Broadcasting Messages
Similar to Alexa’s Announcements, Google Nest allows you to broadcast messages to all connected devices or to specific rooms. This can be helpful for quickly requesting assistance within your home.
Product image of Google’s Nest Hub
Calling Contacts
Google Nest devices can make audio and video calls to contacts in your Google account, providing another avenue for reaching out for help.
Which Smart Assistant is Best for Emergency Situations?
For comprehensive voice-activated emergency assistance, Alexa with Emergency Assist is generally the superior choice. The ability to directly summon help and provide crucial information to first responders is a significant advantage. However, both Alexa and Google Nest integrate with various smart home devices that enhance safety and security. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. If hands-free, voice-activated emergency calling is paramount, Alexa with Emergency Assist is recommended. If basic communication and contact calling are sufficient, Google Nest may be adequate.
