Take 5 minutes now to check out these emergency Android features!

Android phones have powerful, often overlooked emergency features that can call for help, share important information, and alert you to natural disasters. But it's your responsibility to make sure they're set up properly and that you know how to use them.

• 3 hidden features on Android P you should explore now

5. Add multiple emergency contacts

In a crisis, the first thing you want to do is reach someone you trust. That's why it's important to have emergency contacts set up on your phone. First responders can reach these people instantly, even if your phone is locked.

On your phone, go to Settings > Safety and emergency > Emergency contacts . Tap Add emergency contact , select the contacts you want to add, and tap Done .

4. Add medical information to the lock screen

On Android, you can add important health details—like allergies, blood type, medical conditions, and other important notes—right on your lock screen.

To set it up, open the Settings app and go to Safety and emergency > Medical info . Tap the pencil icon in the top-right corner, fill in your details, and tap Save . When you're done, make sure to turn on the Show on lock screen option so first responders can see it without unlocking your phone.

3. Turn on Emergency Location Services

Imagine you’re in a situation where you need help fast. When you call or text emergency services, Android’s Emergency Location Services can automatically share your exact location with first responders. This feature works even if you’ve turned off location services to save your phone’s battery. To make sure it’s on, go to Settings > Safety and emergency > Emergency Location Services and turn on the switch.

2. Learn how to use Emergency SOS

Once you enable this feature, your phone will automatically contact emergency services. And if you have emergency contacts set up, your phone will also send them a message with your current location.

To customize how the feature works, go to Settings > Safety & emergency > Emergency SOS . You can adjust the countdown timer before making an emergency call, which can help prevent accidental activations. If you want the call to go through immediately after activation, turn off the Require swipe to call option .

You can also create a custom alarm button on Android if you want to do more.

1. Make sure Emergency Alerts are turned on (and checked)

Android phones are designed to receive important alerts from government agencies, including warnings about severe weather, earthquakes, public safety threats, and missing persons (like AMBER alerts). These notifications are usually turned on by default, but you should double-check to make sure you haven't accidentally turned them off.

Go to Settings > Safety & emergency > Earthquake alerts and turn on the toggle. When enabled, your phone can notify you of an earthquake's estimated strength and distance from your location. Tap See a demo to preview what one of these alerts will actually sound and look like.

Note : Earthquake warnings are not supported in all areas. If you are in an area without warnings, you can still stay informed by installing an earthquake monitoring and warning app on your phone.