Can 911 receive text messages from a mobile phone?

Question

If you're in a situation that requires silence or if you're in/out of calling range, can you send a text to 911 detailing your situation?

Answer 1

The correct answer is no. You cannot text message a 911 call. 911 centers do not have the equipment to receive text messages on their 911 lines. If you need 911 dial it and follow the Dispatchers instructions.

Answer 2

"On August 8, 2014, the Commission adopted an order that will require all wireless carriers and other text messaging providers that enable consumers to send text messages to and from U.S. phone numbers to deliver emergency texts to PSAPs that request them. Wireless carriers and other text messaging providers that are not already supporting text-to-911 must be capable of doing so by the end of 2014, and must respond to PSAP requests to deliver text-to-911 by June 30, 2015, or six months from the date of the PSAP’s request, whichever is later."

http://www.fcc.gov/text-to-911

Answer 3

In most major cities you can text message 911, all phones are equipped to do so and it's free, it just depends on if your local police department has that option available. You could give them a call if you think it's something you may need to do someday.

Answer 4

Yes. This has been done in the past by using the dispatchers personal phone to receive message. TTD capability is mandatory in the US. Some department have 3rd generation dispatching capability and this includes my college campus. Sadly the US has not reached generation 3 everywhere yet.

Answer 5

no but 911 is alwways available even if your cell service is off. www.myspace.com/jimmycody