How to enable emergency location service on an Android phone
When every second counts, this Android feature could save your life.
If you're in an emergency and you dial your local emergency number, they'll need basic information, like your location, to come to your aid.
But this can be problematic if you're in an unfamiliar area or can't speak enough to explain where you are. That's where Android's Emergency Location Service (ELS) comes in handy.
ELS is a smart feature that automatically sends your phone's precise location to first responders when you make an emergency call or text. Unlike basic cell tower triangulation (which can be off by kilometers), ELS uses multiple signals like GPS, Wi-Fi, and even your phone's sensors to pinpoint your location, whether you're indoors, outdoors, or even underground.
The best part is that it also works automatically (if enabled) and sends this information directly to emergency services without Google seeing or storing your location (if you're worried about your data being collected).
In this guide, learn how to enable the Emergency Location Service (ELS) on an Android phone.
Oyinebiladou Omemu
How to enable Emergency Location Service (ELS) on Android
Step 1: Open Settings on your phone and select Location.
Step 2: Select Emergency Location Service under Location services.
Step 3: Toggle on Use Emergency Location Service.
Oyinebiladou Omemu
Conclusion
Enabling emergency location service takes just a few taps, but it could be one of the most important settings on your phone. By turning on ELS, you’re ensuring that if the worst happens, whether it’s a car accident, a medical emergency, or being lost in an unfamiliar place, first responders can find you faster and more accurately.
So, take a minute today to check this setting. It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need, but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.
Image credit: Oyinebiladou Omemu/Techloy.com
