In critical situations, having quick access to emergency information can be lifesaving. The Emergency feature on iPhones, which includes Medical ID and emergency contacts, is often overlooked. However, these features can provide crucial medical information to first responders and loved ones when users are unable to communicate.
Since the introduction of iOS in 2014, Apple has integrated these features into its devices, allowing users to store vital medical details. With smartphones always at hand, these options can effectively replace the traditional practice of keeping medical information in wallets. Setting them up takes just a few minutes, but the potential benefits during emergencies are significant.
Checking Your Medical ID
If you’ve previously set up your Medical ID, it’s wise to review your information regularly. Changes in health conditions, allergies, or medications can occur over time, and keeping this information current is essential.
To create or edit your Medical ID on your iPhone, open the Health app and tap on your profile picture in the top right corner. Select Medical ID from the list. Here, you'll find two sliders that control the visibility of your medical information.
- Show When Locked: This option allows anyone to access your Medical ID from the lock screen by selecting Emergency and then Medical ID.
- Share During Emergency Call: Enabling this option automatically shares your critical medical information with emergency services without needing to speak.
It's recommended to activate both options, as information hidden behind a locked screen is of no use during emergencies.
Adding Emergency Contacts
At the bottom of the Medical ID page, you can add Emergency Contacts. This function allows you to designate individuals who should be notified in case of an emergency. Tap Add Emergency Contact, select from your existing contacts, and label your relationship with them. It’s advisable to include multiple contacts in case one is unreachable.
These emergency contacts serve two primary purposes. First, they can be contacted by medical personnel or anyone who finds your phone to inform them of your situation. Second, these contacts will receive alerts and your location if the Emergency SOS feature is activated.
Configuring Emergency SOS Settings
To review your Emergency SOS options, navigate to Settings and select Emergency SOS. Here, you can adjust your preferences for emergency calling.
By default, initiating Emergency SOS involves pressing the Side button along with one of the Volume buttons. Users must hold the buttons for a few seconds longer than they would to turn off the device. This initiates a countdown with a loud sound, signaling that a call to emergency services will soon take place.
- Call with 5 Button Presses: This option allows you to press the Side button multiple times quickly to trigger an emergency call, but be cautious as it might be activated accidentally.
- Call Quietly: This feature disables the alert sound, making it harder for others to notice if an emergency call is triggered inadvertently.
If you accidentally initiate a call, it’s best to stay on the line and explain the situation. Additionally, even if both options are turned off, you can use the Emergency Call slider that appears when turning off your phone.
Using Emergency Features Effectively
Another feature linked to emergency preparedness is Emergency Bypass, which allows certain contacts to ring through even when your phone is on silent or Focus mode. To activate this, go to the Contacts app, select a contact, tap Edit, and enable Emergency Bypass for their Ringtone or Text Tone.
In some parts of the U.S., sending a text to 911 is also an option. While calling is generally more effective, texting can be a lifesaver if speaking could put you in danger.
For iPhone 14 and newer models, users can send emergency messages via satellite or call when there’s no signal. To test this, open Control Center, tap the connectivity toggle group, and select Satellite.
Setting up your iPhone’s emergency features might not seem appealing, but it is crucial to do so before you need them. Taking a few minutes now could make a significant difference in a future emergency.
Source: https://telset.id/how-to/cara-setup-kontak-darurat-dan-medical-id-di-iphone
