Text to 9-1-1

Text to 9-1-1 is a service that allows you to send a text message to the short code "911", and have that text message delivered to the appropriate 9-1-1 call center for your location. It is an optional service that some 9-1-1 centers support and others don't, so it's not available in all areas.

9-1-1 centers are highly encouraged to support text to 9-1-1 service, but there is no federal or state requirement that they do so. As such, it is not universally available. The map below shows where text to 9-1-1 is currently available and where it is not. Counties that have text to 9-1-1 available are shown in green. Counties shown in yellow have text to 9-1-1 available in some parts of the county and not others. Counties in red have no text to 9-1-1 service.

Also remember that in order to send a text to 9-1-1 call, you must have a cell signal strong enough to send a text message.

If you attempt to send a text message to "911" from a location where text to 9-1-1 service is not available, you should receive a "bounce back message" informing you that text to 9-1-1 service is not available in your area and encouraging you to call 9-1-1.

Some 9-1-1 centers can receive attachments if you send them to the short code "911," but at this time most centers cannot. It's better to avoid sending attachments such as pictures or videos, and just send text unless otherwise instructed by the 9-1-1 call taker.

It is better to call by voice if you can. Voice calls are faster and allow for more direct conversation between the 9-1-1 call taker and the caller. However, there are a number of situations where texting 9-1-1 is preferable:

• The caller has a hearing or speech disability that prevents them from making a voice call.

• The caller is in a situation where speaking audibly may put them in danger, such as an active shooter situation, domestic violence, or a home invasion.

• The caller is in a location with a weak cell signal or has low battery power on their phone. Voice calls often need a stronger signal or require more power than texting.

The motto for text to 9-1-1 is "Call if you can, text if you can't."

9-1-1 centers do receive your location when you text 9-1-1, but the location information isn't always accurate or precise. It also works differently than location information that is received when someone calls 9-1-1 by voice. Always be prepared to provide your location when you text 9-1-1. If you can include it in your initial text message, that will save valuable time during the call.