TEXT-TO-9-1-1 USAGE GUIDELINES
The NUMBER ONE GUIDELINE for citizens is that a voice call to 9-1-1 is still preferable for accessing emergency help. Public safety agencies, associations and other organizations across the country have adopted the theme, “Call when you can, text when you can’t.” The Federal Communications Commission recommends that even where text-to-9-1-1 is available, you should always make a voice call to 9-1-1 if you are able and if it is safe to do so.2 NENA provides these simple instructions on how to text-to-9-1-1:
How to text 9-1-1 in an emergency:
• Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” field.
• The first text message to 9-1-1 should be brief and contain the location of the emergency and type of help needed.
• Push the “Send” button.
• Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.
• Text in simple words – do not use abbreviations.
• Keep text messages brief and concise.
What citizens need to know about texting-to-9-1-1:
• In order to correctly dispatch an emergency, 9-1-1 call takers need to ask questions, such as the address of the emergency, type of emergency, telephone number you are calling from, and the name of the caller.
• You should only text 9-1-1 when a voice call is not an option.
• Deaf or hard of hearing
• If speaking to a dispatcher will put you in greater danger such as kidnapping, domestic violence or hostage situations
• Just like any other form of 9-1-1 communications, text ONLY for emergency situations that require an immediate response from:
• Police • Fire • Emergency Medical Services * If an immediate response is not required, call the local non-emergency line.
• Just like any other emergency communication, provide your exact location and the nature of the emergency in the initial message.
• Be aware of your phone.
• The mobile phone you are using to text 9-1-1 must be capable of sending text messages.
• The phone must carry a texting plan subscription through your wireless carrier.
• The call must be placed in range of your service provider’s cell phone towers.
• If you are outside or near the edge of your carrier’s network or PSAP jurisdiction when sending a text to 9-1-1, the message may not reach the emergency call center.
• In the event your message does not reach an emergency call center, you will receive a message instructing you to make a voice call to 9-1-1.
• If you accidentally send a text to 9-1-1, be sure to follow up with another text or voice call to let the call taker know it was an accident and there is no emergency.
Original source can be found here
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