Abstract: A programmable emergency communication system for dialing an emergency number, such as a number for a central station, a 911 exchange, or third parties, permits voice-to-voice communication between a home system and the called number. The home system automatically dials one of the stored telephone numbers in response to a signal from a hand held medallion, a signal from a sip/puff switch, a signal from a paddle switch, a signal from a smoke detector, or a signal from a front panel of the home system. The home system reports emergency signals and also reports non-emergency signals, such as a low battery condition, to the central station. The home system has many options which may be programmed to suit the particular desires of the user. The home system may be programmed by any telephone which has access to the telephone line to which the home system is connected.