Alexa is capable of many things, including helping you with your fitness goals [1] and getting you more organized [2], but there is one thing she can't do. She cannot call 911 for you in the case of an emergency. You can only communicate with those in your contacts who have their own Amazon Echo device or via the Alexa app.

However, there is a potentially life-saving skill [3] that every Echo-device owner should enable ASAP: Ask My Buddy. Ask My Buddy [4] is a free service on Amazon Echo and Google Home platforms that can alert anyone in your Personal Alert Network any time you need help. If your phone is out of reach and you need urgent assistance, simply say "Alexa (or "Hey Google"), Ask My Buddy to alert James," "Alexa, Ask My Buddy to send help," or "Alexa, Ask My Buddy to alert everyone." Alexa will then immediately send a text, email, and even voice call to your contact or everyone on your list alerting them to check on you right away.

This feature is a great backup for seniors, people with disabilities, and individuals who live alone. To get started, pull up your Alexa app and tap on "Skills" in the menu drop down. Search "Ask My Buddy" and enable. You will then be redirected to Ask My Buddy's site to create an account and add up to five contacts to your Personal Alert Network.

Though Ask My Buddy is not a substitute for 911, it can give you peace of mind knowing that help is nearby. You never know when you'll need it!