Text-to-911 should only be used in situations where it is safer to text than speak or in situations where someone is unable to call and speak to a trained Communication Operator on the phone. Calling 911 will continue to be the preferred method of requesting emergency assistance.
Text-to-911 works with the cooperation of your cellular service provider by sending text messages sent to 911 to the nearest 911 Communications Center which is determined by the wireless towers your phone is connecting to in order to send/receive SMS data. When those messages are received within the Communication Center, a trained operator will read, reply, and send help accordingly.
When texting on your mobile device, type the numbers 911 in the “To” or “Recipient” field, then send your message.
The trained 911 Communication Operator will ask you many questions, they will assist in sending emergency responders to the location you have identified, and they may provide instructions on things for you to do. Most importantly, try to remain calm until help arrives.
At this time, Text-to-911 service in this area only supports SMS (Short Message Service) to 911 Communication Centers. The ability to send pictures or videos may be in the future, but not currently at this time. Additionally, emoticons (emoji’s) cannot be used; your text may not go through.
In the event you attempt a 911 text, and the service is either not yet available or the service is down a particular time, you will receive a bounce back message indicating that you need to place a voice call to 911 for help, Text-to-911 is not available.
A 911 dispatcher should respond to your text. If the service is not available, you will receive a bounce back message indicating that you need to place a voice call to 911 for help, Text-to-911 is not available.
Standard text messaging rates apply.
Text-to-911 is not available to unregistered/unsubscribed phones.