Most phones have an emergency feature that calls for help or sends a message to people you choose. Setting it up before an emergency means you do not have to search for it when you need it most.

Android

1. Open Settings, then search for Emergency or Safety.
2. Look for Emergency SOS and turn it on. Some phones let you press the power button several times to start it.
3. Add emergency contacts so they receive a message with your location.

iPhone

1. Open Settings, then Emergency SOS.
2. Turn on Call with Side Button or Call with Buttons, depending on your model.
3. Open the Health app, then Medical ID, and add contacts and any medical details you want shared.

What it sends

Emergency features usually share your location and a message with your chosen contacts. They do not make the same call as your everyday dialler, so tell your contacts what to expect and who to call first.

Test it carefully

Many phones let you practise without calling emergency services. Check the menu for a test or demo option, and tell your contacts first so they are not surprised.

Common mistakes

• Adding contacts once and never checking whether the numbers still work.
• Leaving the feature off because it seems unlikely you will need it. It takes two minutes to set up.
• Putting medical details in the Medical ID that you would not want a stranger to read. Keep it to what helps in an emergency, such as blood group and allergies.