answering machines is to: find out what messages you have missed while passed out..then call the person that left the message back to ...
A) Continue the conversation
B) Find out why the person called initially
C) Acknowledge the person
There should be a little flashing light on it that "flashes" because the "answering machine" has a message on it. Push the button that says "play messages". Typically the person will identify who they are and leave a number so you are able to reach them to ..( see above A, B and C)
Hope this helps!