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How Fall Detection Works

The SOS App uses your device’s motion sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, and activity recognition) to detect sudden impacts, unusual movements, or prolonged inactivity that may indicate a fall or accident.
Once a fall is detected, the app automatically initiates an emergency response to protect you even if you are unable to manually activate help.

Overview​

When a fall or impact is detected:

  1. The SOS App automatically triggers an SOS alert.
  2. Your live location is sent instantly to your saved emergency contacts.
  3. (Optional) Secret audio or video recording may start if configured.
  4. Notifications are triggered silently or with sirens based on your settings.

Fall detection runs continuously in the background once enabled, providing real-time protection — even when the app is closed.

How Fall Detection Works​

StageDescription
Monitoring MotionThe device continuously monitors movement patterns through sensors.
Detecting Sudden ChangesThe app identifies rapid acceleration changes or sudden stops.
Analyzing InactivityLack of movement after impact is analyzed to confirm potential falls.
Emergency TriggerIf a fall is confirmed, SOS alerts and configured safety actions are automatically activated.
info

The SOS App uses intelligent filtering to minimize false positives while maintaining quick emergency response.

Required Permissions​

To function correctly, Fall Detection requires:

  • Background Location Access
    (To send your live location during a fall event.)

  • Physical Activity Recognition Access
    (To detect motion patterns and sudden impacts.)

  • Battery Optimization Exception (Recommended)
    (To allow continuous background monitoring without interruption.)

Ensure these permissions are granted during setup for optimal performance.

Setup Guide​

Follow these steps to enable Fall Detection:

  1. Open the SOS App.
  2. Navigate to Dashboard → Fall Detection.
  3. Toggle Enable Fall Detection.
  4. Grant the necessary permissions when prompted:
    • Location: Allow all the time.
    • Physical Activity Recognition.
  5. (Optional) Configure additional actions:
    • Enable automatic siren.
    • Start secret audio/video recording on detection.
    • Customize fall sensitivity (if supported).
  6. To check fall history, navigate to Dashboard → Fall Logs.
    • Detect any false incidents.
    • Check recent falls to track suspicious activity.
View Screenshot

Step 1: Navigate to Fall Detection from Dashbaord

Fall Detection from Dashbaord

Step 2: Activate fall detection by turning ON the toggle. Activate fall detection

Step 3: Set the fall detection sensitivity

fall detection sensitivity

Step 4: Track your fall logs

fall logs

tip

After setup, perform a light simulated drop test (e.g., carefully dropping the phone on a soft surface) to validate detection responsiveness.

Example Use Cases​

ScenarioHow Fall Detection Helps
Elderly usersAutomatically notify family in case of accidental falls.
Solo travelersEnsure alerts are sent if an accident occurs during hiking or travel.
Construction workersProvide safety backup in hazardous work environments.
Medical patientsImmediate assistance during health-related collapses or injuries.

Best Practices for Accurate Fall Detection​

RecommendationWhy It Matters
Carry the device properlyPocket, belt clip, or arm band ensures correct motion sensing.
Keep sensors enabledTurn on Location Services and Activity Recognition at all times.
Avoid aggressive app optimizationAllow the SOS App to run freely in the background for continuous protection.
Periodically recalibrate if neededUpdate sensitivity settings based on your activity patterns or environment.

Common Questions​

Will Fall Detection work if my phone is locked?

Yes. Fall Detection remains active even when the phone is locked, minimized, or in sleep mode.

Can I adjust how sensitive fall detection is?

Yes. Depending on your device, you can adjust fall sensitivity settings in Settings → Fall Detection → Sensitivity Adjustment.

Will Fall Detection trigger false alerts?

While the SOS App uses intelligent filtering, strong drops, phone shaking, or sudden throws may trigger occasional false positives.
Sensitivity tuning helps minimize this.

Does Fall Detection use a lot of battery?

Minimal. The system is optimized for lightweight sensor monitoring but whitelisting the app from battery optimization ensures highest reliability.

Troubleshooting​

IssueSolution
Fall not detectedRecalibrate sensitivity. Ensure permissions (Location, Activity Recognition) are fully granted.
False positive detectionAdjust fall sensitivity settings to a lower level.
No SOS alert after fallConfirm that Fall Detection is enabled and running properly in the background.
High battery drainWhitelist SOS App under device battery optimization settings.

Fall Detection adds a powerful layer of automatic emergency protection, ensuring help is dispatched even when you cannot manually trigger an alert.
By intelligently monitoring movement patterns and sudden impacts, the SOS App provides life-saving assistance when you may need it most.

Enable Fall Detection today to stay protected — wherever life takes you.

What's Next​

Learn how to adjust Fall Sensitivity settings to reduce false positives and fine-tune detection.