If you are hearing or speech impaired, texting 911 can be one of the only ways to reach emergency services.

Most mobile handheld devices in the United States can send a text to emergency services (911). However, according to the FCC, not all 911 dispatch locations support texting 911. A list of jurisdictions which support it can be found on the FCC website.

How to Text 911

1. On your mobile phone, go to your text messaging application and enter “911” in the “To” section.

2. Type out a message that includes the location (Town, State, Street Address, apartment number etc.), the nature of the emergency, as well as what type of emergency service you need (fire, medical, police).

3. DO NOT include emojis, photos/videos or any other attachments.

Once you text 911, one of two things will happen:

a. The 911 operator will provide you with further instructions.

or

b. If texting 911 is not available in your area, you will receive a bounceback message from your carrier to contact 911 in some other way.

Important Note

Texting.io does NOT provide the capability to send text messages to 911. If you or anyone you are aware of is in danger or requires emergency services, stop reading this and contact 911 immediately.

This blog post talks about the technical aspects of texting 911 from a handheld, mobile device for individuals who are hearing impaired or hard of hearing and is not intended as legal advice.