FOI 25-013 Smart Phones and Emergency Services

Freedom of Information Request

Reference

FOI 25-013 Smart Phones and Emergency Services

Request Date

08 Jan 2025

Response Date

24 Jan 2025

Information Requested

Hi the new Google pixel phone and other phone manufacturers I imagine, i have an Google
app that detects if no heart beat is found. It calls 999, and plays an automated message,
advising no heartbeat, plus location co-ordinates, and what's called a plus code in my case
it's G8WR+W3, this code once entered on Google maps gives the location. My question is
are the 999 service who initially answer the call aware of this, the message is played 3
times, and if so, would they transfer the information onto the Ambulance Service?

Response

The Scottish Ambulance Service is aware that although some smart watches now have this
function available, it is not currently licenced to be part of the UK Emergency Services
Network.

We understand that the group responsible for delivering the UK 999 network, UK
Government representatives and BT are in discussions with manufacturers to ensure the
products meet the standards of certification.

Due to this, The Scottish Ambulance Service have no set processes in place to respond to
calls presented to the service in this way, but we are in discussions with other providers
around how we can manage this until manufacturers meet the standards set out to be
officially recognised by the Emergency Services Network