Abstract: A remote control for pull-cord stations in hospitals, convalescent homes, and multi-unit housing for the elderly consists of a portable transmitter and an activator unit. The small, battery-powered radio transmitter is worn on a necklace. The compact activator unit is hung on the wall and plugged into an electrical outlet. The pull-cord is tied with a simple knot to the activator unit. A person requiring emergency assistance who is unable to get to the pull-cord summons help by pressing the button on the transmitter. A loud buzzer in the activator unit announces that the distress signal has been received and the cord has been pulled and that help is on the way.