Abstract: A system and method is provided to automatically detect and respond to a hazardous event. The present invention is especially useful to a person that is incapable of announcing an emergency, or otherwise unable to locate or reach a wireless communication device such as a cellular telephone and dial 911. In an aspect, a wireless communication device employing an event detection algorithm detects a predetermined acoustic signature such as metal deformation or glass breaking, a predetermined mechanical signature or other input such as a threshold temperature signifying a hazardous event, and automatically initiates and communicates for assistance. Geographic Position information of the communication device and therefore the hazardous event can additionally be provided via a position determination device or a GPS. The present invention can be used as a two-way communication in a speakerphone mode, and can be readily transported with a person, operating independently from a motor vehicle.