Text-to-9-1-1 is a valuable service to be used in an emergency situation when it is not possible to make a voice call. Voice calls are still the best and fastest way to contact 9-1-1.
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Where is Text -to - 9-1-1 service available?
GHC 9-1-1 territory and some parts of the U.S. for subscribers of all four major wireless carriers and resellers of these networks:
- AT&T
- Sprint
- T-Mobile
- Verizon
If texting to 9-1-1 is not available in your area, or is temporarily unavailable, you will get a reply to contact 9-1-1 by voice or relay services.
To find out more about text to 9-1-1 coverage areas check with the FCC or your local authorities (https://www.fcc.gov/files/text-911-master-psap-registryxlsx).
Only subscribers with an active text or data plan can send to text-to-9-1-1.
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When should I text 9-1-1?
Texting is recommended ONLY when you cannot make a voice call
- If you are Deaf/Hard-of-hearing or speech impaired
- A medical emergency that renders speech
- It is not safe to talk
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How do I text 9-1-1?
- Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” or “Recipient” field
- The first text to 9-1-1 should be short, include the location of the emergency, and ask for police, fire or medical help
- Push the “Send” button
- Answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker
- Text in simple words – no abbreviations or slang
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Tips for those who are deaf or hard of hearing
Here are some videos that can tell you more about text-to-9-1-1.
A brief introduction video created by the Texas School for Deaf:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPfZUv14guM&feature=youtu.be
Created for nationwide distribution the following videos explain how text‑to‑9‑1‑1 works in areas that have the service as well as what happens in those areas where it is currently not available. These videos are in ASL, captioned, include voice over narration and audio descriptions
- General Information about Text-to-9-1-1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlM3PBsqqvA
- How to Text 9-1-1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j509tezozmY
- Important Facts About Text-to-9-1-1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UD31BrwEDwE