About Text-to-911
Text-to-911 allows you to send a text message to 911 from your mobile phone or device. You should always place a voice call to 911 during an emergency whenever possible because it provides real-time information and moves at a faster pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should text-to-911 be used?
Text-to-911 is intended for use in 3 emergency scenarios:
- If someone is deaf, hard of hearing, or has a speech disability and needs to reach 911.
- During a medical emergency where the person may be unable to speak.
- If someone is in a situation where it is unsafe to place a voice call to 911.
How to text 911 in an emergency?
- Enter the numbers “911” in the “TO” field. (Do not use dashes)
- Be brief in the initial message and include the location of the emergency (address and city), and what type of help is needed (police, fire, medical).
- Push the “SEND” button.
- Wait to be prompted for further information and/or instructions from the 911 Calltaker.
Things to know about Text-to-911
- Text sessions can take longer to complete, so please remember to CALL IF YOU CAN, TEXT IF YOU CAN’T.
- Your message to 911 is routed based on your location, signal strength, and the cell phone tower your phone or device connects to.
- Text-to-911 is not available everywhere. If it is unavailable in your area, you will receive a message indicating to contact 911 via other means.
- Currently, this service is only available for text in the English language.
- Photos, Videos, and Emojis cannot be sent to 911 at this time.
- Text-to-911 cannot include more than one person in the message that is sent.
- A text or data plan is required to place a
- Text-to-911 and standard text messaging rates apply.