When Should Text-to-911 be Used?
- The reporting party cannot speak while a crime is in progress.
- The reporting party must remain quiet to stay safe.
- If speaking may cause harm, such as in a home invasion, domestic violence, or human trafficking situation.
- If the reporting party encounters a suicidal or agitated person.
- If peer pressure is strong.
- If the reporting party is deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or has a speech impairment.
- If you can safely call, call 911 and do not text. Texting simply isn't as efficient in an emergency.
How to Text 911
- Enter the numbers 911 in the "To" field.
- Text messages should include your location and type of emergency.
- Send the message.
- Be ready to answer questions and follow instructions.
- Use simple words.
- Do not use abbreviations, emojis, pictures or slang. (BRB, IDK, THX, 2day and BTW, for example)
- Do not text and drive.
It is a crime to text 911 with a false report. If you accidentally send a text to 911, send another text or place a call to let the dispatcher know that there is no emergency.