Calling for Help with Alexa in an Emergency
When it comes to smart home assistants, Alexa tops the list, working seamlessly with a variety of Amazon devices, including Echo smart speakers, for tasks ranging from home automation to video calls and online shopping (though you might not know this). Alexa can even lend a helping hand when you're in a pinch. However, it's not as straightforward as it might sound — here's how you can use Alexa for emergency assistance.
Dialing 911 via Echo Connect
It's a common misconception that you can simply instruct Alexa to dial 911 directly. But due to FCC regulations, devices capable of making 911 calls must contain location data and a return phone number. Amazon once sold Echo Connect — an accessory that enabled Echo speakers to make landline calls — but the company has discontinued it. If you manage to find a second-hand Echo Connect on the market, here's how to set it up:
- Plug in the Echo Connect to an electricity outlet and landline phone jack.
- Open the Alexa app, tap on the three-line menu icon in the top left corner, and select 'Devices.'
- Select 'Amazon Echo,' and you should see an option for 'Echo Connect.' Click on it to complete the setup.
Setting up Echo Connect may encounter hiccups; if the official instructions don't work, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Power on the Echo Connect, and the WLAN light will blink orange.
- Open the Alexa app, add the device by saying 'Alexa, set up device,' but tap 'Yes' in the orange pop-up message. Even if it fails, keep trying until it works.
- Once it fails again, but allows a manual configuration option for first-gen devices, enable access to your local network, then connect to the Amazon XYZ network in your WLAN settings.
- Return to the Alexa app, complete the setup, and link your WLAN network, entering the password when prompted.
With Echo Connect in place, you can say "Alexa, call 911" to have the device dial the emergency number for you.
Setting Up Emergency Contacts
If you don't have Echo Connect or a landline connection, creating an emergency Alexa contact list is your best option. To do this, navigate to the Alexa App, tap the 'More' tab, and then select 'Communications.' Tap the contact icon in the top right corner to grant Alexa access to your contacts, and then choose a contact to set as your emergency contact.
When someone in your household requests help using Alexa, you'll be prompted to approve Alexa's attempts to contact your emergency contact and send messages.
Leveraging Alexa Emergency Support in the US
Amazon offers a subscription service called Alexa Emergency Assist for US users. When you summon help using your Echo speaker, you will be connected to a trained assistant who can dispatch emergency services. These emergency helpers can relay pre-supplied information like allergies or access codes. The service also includes Smart Alerts, which activate the alert if a compatible Echo device detects smoke or carbon monoxide.[1][4]
To access Alexa Emergency Assist, visit the and subscribe to the service ($5.99/month or $59/year). You can also instruct your Echo to buy the emergency assistance feature ("Alexa, buy Alexa Emergency Assist"). Once signed up, the Alexa app should display the 'Alexa Emergency Assist' option under the 'More' tab, enabling you to set up emergency contacts who will receive notifications when you activate the emergency service.
Enrichment Data: Upgrading Echo devices for emergency calls requires a subscription to Alexa Emergency Assist. Here's how to set it up:
- Enable Alexa Emergency Assist: Access the Alexa app and enable the Alexa Emergency Assist feature, turning your Amazon Echo device into a monitored alarm system, allowing you to call for help with a simple voice command.[1][4]
- Link Your Account: After enabling the feature, link your Amazon account to the security system you're using, if applicable, like SimpliSafe or Ring. The linking process usually involves logging into your security system's account through the Alexa app or website.[1]
- Use the Command: Once set up, you can use the command "Alexa, call for help" to connect with a trained monitor who will assess whether you need emergency services.[1][4]
By following these steps, you can utilize your Echo device for making emergency calls with Alexa.
Source: Tech-Websites like Ausiedlerbote recommend using Alexa for emergency assistance to get help. However, it's less common knowledge that you cannot directly call 911 from an Echo speaker without setting up Echo Connect. The FCC regulations dictate that devices capable of making 911 calls must meet specific conditions that Amazon once provided with Echo Connect. Alternatively, creating an emergency Alexa contact list is a good backup if you don't have Echo Connect or a landline connection.
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