Alexa Emergency Assist is now available on all Echo devices, ranging from the oldest Echo speaker to the latest Echo Show 8. If you or someone at home needs help in an emergency but is not close to a phone, this new feature can be a lifesaver. Alexa’s Emergency Assist functions similarly to Alexa Guard but is a separate service. It provides a 24/7 emergency response option for anyone with an Echo device at home.
By simply saying, “Alexa, call for help,” the virtual assistant will connect you to an agent who can dispatch first responders to your home. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who may not have a phone nearby, such as children or older individuals living alone. Additionally, Emergency Assist can notify up to 25 predetermined emergency contacts that you have reached out for help and inform them once the call has ended.
Users can input essential information, such as their address, medical conditions, and medication allergies, into the Alexa app for first responders to access. This feature can be a game-changer for families, like mine, who have had to call 911 for medical emergencies. Amazon is discontinuing Alexa Guard but incorporating some of its features into the general Alexa experience.
Emergency Assist is offered as a subscription service for $5.99 per month or $59 per year for a limited time, with potential price increases after January. Ring Protect Pro and Ring Protect Plus customers who linked their Ring account to their Amazon account before a certain date will receive a year of Emergency Assist at no extra cost until October 31, 2024.
Parenting fears about worst-case scenarios can be eased by implementing systems like Alexa Emergency Assist. While it may be uncomfortable to think about, preparing for emergencies and ensuring quick access to help can be lifesaving. This feature is not only beneficial for parents but also for individuals living alone who may require immediate assistance during an emergency.
