How to use Emergency SOS on an Apple Watch

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Emergency SOS calls the local emergency number from your wrist. After the call the watch sends your emergency contacts a message with your location. Know how it works before you need it.

Step by step

1. Press and hold the side button

   The side button is the flat button below the Digital Crown. Hold it until the sliders appear.

   Done

2. Drag the Emergency Call slider

   The call starts at once.

   Done

3. Or keep holding the button

   A countdown starts and an alert sounds. When it ends, the watch calls the emergency services automatically.

   Done

4. Speak to the operator

   Say where you are and what happened. The watch works as a speakerphone.

   Done

5. After the call

   The watch sends your emergency contacts a text message with your current location, unless you choose to cancel. It sends updates for a while if your location changes.

   Done

Good to know

Started the countdown by mistake? Let go of the side button. If the call has already connected, stay on the line and tell the operator that you do not need help.

The watch needs a connection: its own mobile plan, your iPhone nearby, or Wi-Fi calling with an internet connection.

To stop the automatic call when the button is held: Watch app on the iPhone, My Watch, Emergency SOS, switch off Hold Side Button to Dial. The slider still works.

Emergency contacts are set in the Health app on the iPhone, under Medical ID.

The watch can also call by itself after a hard fall: how to turn on fall detection on an Apple Watch.

In short: Hold the side button, drag Emergency Call, or keep holding through the countdown.