A Life-Saving Feature You Already Have on Your Phone
By Steve
In 10 minutes, you can set up your phone's Medical ID and Emergency SOS. Here's how.
Today, we're going to talk about something a little different, but incredibly important. It's not about a fun new app or a productivity trick. It's about a feature that is already built into your smartphone that could, quite literally, save your life or the life of someone you love in an emergency.
We know from our conversations that health and safety are top of mind for many of you, from worries about falling to managing medical information. Your phone can be a powerful ally in these situations. We’re going to walk you through, step-by-step, how to set up your phone’s Medical ID and Emergency SOS features. It takes about ten minutes, and it is one of the most important things you can do with your device.
Emergency Info on Your Phone: Setting Up Medical ID & SOS Features in 10 Minutes
Think of these features as a digital version of a medical alert bracelet and an emergency beacon, all rolled into one and always with you. If you hold the power buttons this screen will pop up that allows emergency responders to view your Medical ID and SOS features:
What is Medical ID? (Your Digital Wallet Card)
Your phone's Medical ID is a special screen that displays your vital medical information, which can be accessed even when your phone is locked.
Why It's So Important: In an emergency, first responders (paramedics, doctors, etc.) are trained to look for a Medical ID on a patient's phone. It can instantly provide them with your allergies, current medications, medical conditions, blood type, and primary language. It speaks for you when you might not be able to.
What is Emergency SOS? (Your One-Button Lifeline)
Emergency SOS is the fastest way to call for help and alert your loved ones when you're in trouble.
Why It's So Important: If you experience a fall or a sudden health crisis, you might not be able to unlock your phone, find your contacts, and dial 911. The SOS feature allows you to quickly and easily call emergency services with a few simple button presses. After the call ends, it will also automatically send a text message to your designated "Emergency Contacts," letting them know you've called for help and sharing your current location.
How to Set It All Up: A Clear, Step-by-Step Guide
Let's walk through this together.
For iPhone Users:
Open the Health app (the white icon with a pink heart that is already on your phone).
In the top-right corner, tap on your profile picture or initials.
Tap on Medical ID.
Tap Edit in the top-right corner to begin filling out your information.
Enter your important details (allergies, medications, medical conditions). Scroll down to the "Emergency Contacts" section and tap "add emergency contact" to choose people from your address book.
This is the most important step: Scroll to the bottom and make sure the switch for "Show When Locked" is turned on (it should be green). This is what allows a first responder to see your information.
Tap Done in the top-right corner to save.
For Android Users (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.):
The steps can differ slightly depending on your phone's maker, but the process is generally very similar.
Open your main Settings app.
In the search bar at the top of the Settings menu, type the word "Emergency".
Look for an option called "Emergency Information," "Safety & emergency," or "Medical info." Tap on it.
This screen will allow you to enter your medical information (allergies, blood type, etc.) and add your Emergency Contacts.
Ensure that the setting to make this information "accessible from the lock screen" is turned on.
How These Features Work in an Emergency
To View a Medical ID: On a locked phone, a first responder would tap "Emergency" on the dialing screen, and then tap "Medical ID" to view the information you just set up.
To Activate Emergency SOS:
On most newer iPhones, you simply press and hold the side button and one of the volume buttons at the same time until the Emergency SOS slider appears.
On most Android phones, you can rapidly press the power (side) button five times in a row.
Setting this up is a simple act of preparation that provides an invaluable safety net for you and peace of mind for your loved ones.
Quick Tech Tip
When you choose your "Emergency Contacts," pick people who are likely to answer their phone and who know your medical history. After you've added them in your phone's settings, it's a great idea to call or message them to say, "Just so you know, I've listed you as my emergency contact on my phone." This ensures they understand why they might receive an alert message in a crisis.
Tech Term Demystified: 'ICE' (In Case of Emergency)
You may see the acronym ICE used when talking about emergency preparedness. It simply stands for "In Case of Emergency." For years, first responders were trained to look for a contact named "ICE" in a person's phone address book. Setting up your official Emergency Contacts through your phone's Health or Safety settings (as described in our guide) is the modern, more effective way of doing this, as it makes your key contacts visible even when your phone is locked.
Good News Byte
Many modern cars are now equipped with their own SOS features. Often called "Automatic Crash Response," these systems use built-in sensors to detect if you've been in a serious collision. If a crash is detected, the car can automatically call emergency services for you and provide your vehicle's exact GPS location, even if you are unable to make the call yourself. It's another example of technology working as a silent guardian.
Did You Know?
The concept of carrying vital medical information is a long-standing tradition. "MedicAlert" bracelets and necklaces, which are engraved with a person's critical health conditions, first became popular in the 1950s after a young girl had a near-fatal reaction because her medical team didn't know she was allergic to tetanus antitoxin. Your phone's Medical ID is the powerful, modern evolution of this simple but life-saving idea, able to hold far more detailed information to help keep you safe.
Your Turn: The Most Important 10 Minutes of Your Week
I sincerely encourage you to take 10 minutes this week to set up or review your Medical ID and Emergency Contacts. It is one of the most meaningful and important things you can do with your smartphone. Once it's done, you can carry on with your life with the quiet confidence that this digital safety net is there for you if you should ever need it.
Wishing you a safe and wonderful week!
Steve