How to Enable Fall Detection on Apple Watch

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
watchOS 11 - Apple Watch Series 10
You will need
Apple Watch Series 4 or later, iPhone paired with Apple Watch

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Open the Watch app on iPhone

    Unlock your iPhone and locate the Watch app on your home screen. Tap the icon to launch the application and ensure the My Watch tab is selected in the bottom left corner.

  2. 30 sec

    Access Emergency SOS settings

    Scroll down the list of menu items within the My Watch tab. Tap on the Emergency SOS option to open the specific safety configuration page.

  3. 30 sec

    Enable Fall Detection

    Locate the Fall Detection toggle at the top of the menu. Tap the toggle switch so that it illuminates green to activate the feature.

  4. 30 sec

    Select detection frequency

    If prompted, choose between Always On or Only during workouts. Selecting Always On ensures maximum protection regardless of your activity status.

    Note: Always On is recommended for users with higher fall risk profiles.
  5. 1 min

    Update Medical ID details

    Navigate to the Health app on your iPhone and tap your profile icon. Select Medical ID and ensure your emergency contacts and medical conditions are accurate, as these details are transmitted during an emergency alert.