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SOS for fēnix 8 Pro

WARNING

Before you can use the SOS function, you must have a fēnix® 8 Pro watch with an active inReach® service plan. Always test your device outdoors before using it on a trip.

WARNING

If you are using a communication satellite connection, ensure you have a clear view of the sky when using the SOS function.

NOTICE

Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.

During an emergency, you can use your fēnix 8 Pro device to contact the Garmin Response℠ center to request help. Initiating an SOS rescue sends a message to the Garmin Response team, and they notify the appropriate emergency responders of your situation. You can communicate with the Garmin Response team during your emergency while you wait for help to arrive. You should only use the SOS function in a real emergency situation.

Initiating an SOS Rescue

When you initiate an SOS rescue on your fēnix 8 Pro watch, you can correspond with the Garmin Response team to communicate the nature of your emergency. Your replies let the emergency response service know that you are capable of interacting with them during the rescue.

NOTE: You can also initiate an SOS rescue and interact with the Garmin Response team using the Garmin Messenger™ app. You must have an active inReach service plan to use the SOS feature in the Garmin Messenger app. To view a demonstration of the SOS feature, you can hold Middle-left button, and select Safety & Tracking > Satellite SOS Demo.
  1. Select an option:

    • Hold Upper-left button for five seconds.

    • Hold Upper-left button, and select SOS.

    The watch vibrates and sounds an alarm.

  2. Wait for the SOS countdown.

    If you are connected to the LTE network, your watch sends a default message to the emergency response service with details about your location.

    TIP: Before the countdown is complete, you can hold any button to cancel the SOS message.
  3. If you are outside of an LTE coverage area, connect to a communication satellite (Connecting to Communication Satellites).

    When you connect to a communication satellite, your watch sends a default message to the emergency response service with details about your location.

  4. In the SOS message thread, select Reply.
  5. Select an option:

    • To reply with a default message, select a message.

    • To compose a custom message, select Keyboard, and enter your message.

    • To reply with a voice message, select Microphone symbol, and record your message.

      NOTE: Voice messages are only available with an LTE connection.

Canceling an SOS Request

If you no longer need assistance, you can cancel an SOS request after it is sent to the Garmin Response team.

  1. Open the SOS message thread.
  2. Select End Emergency.
  3. Select a reason for ending the SOS request.

    If you are connected to the LTE network, your watch sends the cancellation request.

  4. If you are outside of an LTE coverage area, connect to a communication satellite (Connecting to Communication Satellites).

    When you connect to a communication satellite, your watch sends the cancellation request.

  5. Wait until you receive a confirmation message from the Garmin Response team.

    The watch returns to normal operation.

GUID-EECCAC99-90D6-4AB1-9A3A-EC433D3365E2 v6
November 2025
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