In the modern era, where mobile phones have become an integral part of our daily lives, it’s crucial to leverage their potential for our safety, especially during emergencies. With approximately three-quarters of emergency calls in the UK originating from mobile phones, understanding and setting up essential features on your device can make a significant difference. Here are some tips and tricks to help you stay prepared:
Emergency SOS feature:
Emergency SOS feature to streamline the process. On iPhones, this functionality can be activated by pressing and holding one of the volume buttons along with the side button. The brilliance of Emergency SOS lies in its ability to not only dial 999 or emergency services but also to notify pre-selected emergency contacts once the call concludes. iPhones, for instance, automatically send a text message with your current location to the specified emergency contacts.
- iPhone: Press and hold one of the volume buttons along with the side button to activate Emergency SOS. For iPhone 7 or earlier, rapidly press the side (or top) button five times.
- Android: Press the power button five times or more to access the Emergency SOS feature. Customize actions like sharing your location with emergency contacts through phone settings.
Location sharing
In emergency scenarios, pinpointing your precise location swiftly can be a lifesaver. Two innovative tools, What3Words and WhatsApp, facilitate this critical aspect:
- What3Words: Revolutionizing location sharing, What3Words has divided the world into three-by-three-meter squares, each assigned a unique three-word code. This system, embraced by over 80% of UK emergency services, enables users to communicate precise locations without the need for traditional geographic coordinates.
- WhatsApp: Beyond being a popular messaging app, WhatsApp offers a valuable feature for location sharing. By tapping the plus icon on the bottom left of a WhatsApp chat and selecting ‘Location,’ users can choose to share their current location or their live location for a specified period. This functionality proves particularly useful in scenarios involving lone working, providing an extra layer of security.
Contacting 999 by text
Accessibility is a key factor during emergencies, and for individuals facing challenges such as being unable to speak or having hearing/speech difficulties, contacting 999 by text becomes a vital option. To utilize this service, users must register beforehand by texting the word ‘register’ to 999. In an emergency, sending a text to 999 with the required service and a brief problem description initiates communication with emergency services.
Storing medical information
Having essential medical information readily available during emergencies can significantly impact the quality and speed of medical assistance. Both iPhone and Android devices offer dedicated features for storing such information:
- iPhone: The ‘Health‘ app on iPhones hosts the Medical ID feature. By tapping on the profile button in the top right-hand corner and selecting ‘Medical ID,’ users can input crucial medical details and designate an emergency contact. This information can be configured to be viewable when the phone is locked or shared automatically during an emergency call.
- Android: On Android devices, navigating to ‘Settings‘ and selecting ‘Safety and Emergency‘ provides options to add medical details and emergency contacts. Users can customize how this information is shared, ensuring it aligns with their preferences and privacy considerations.
Apps for lone-working
In today’s evolving work landscape, where remote and lone working scenarios are increasingly prevalent, having tools specifically designed for such situations can enhance both communication and safety. Several mobile apps cater to lone working environments, offering features that allow businesses to stay connected with their employees and provide crucial assistance when needed. Some noteworthy examples include Stay Safe, Get Home Safe, LoneAlert, and Connecteam. These applications often come with customizable features, such as alert notifications and GPS tracking, tailored to the unique needs of lone workers.
Remember, while these features can be invaluable during emergencies, it’s essential to be aware of their availability on different phone models and to contact your network provider for assistance. Additionally, always prioritize safety, and refrain from using your mobile phone while driving to avoid legal consequences. Stay prepared, stay safe!
