Text to 911
July 2013 texTTY presentations
What You Need To Know
Can I send a text-to-911?
The map on the home page of this site shows the coverage area for Indiana. It is updated often. Information is also available at www.fcc.gov/text-to-911.
How do I text-to-911?
- Find the message or messaging icon or menu choice on your phone. Do not use a text app you downloaded.
- Select 'create a new text message'.
- Put 911 in the to: field.
- Put your emergency and your location in the message body.
- Do not attach or send pictures or videos.
- Keep your message short and do not use abbreviations.
- After you enter your text, press send.
- The 911 center will reply within 20 seconds to one minute.
- Continue your dialog with the 911 center, and follow their instructions.
When do I text-to-911?
Make a voice call when you can. Text if you can't make a voice call, or if a voice call would put you in danger. Text-to-911 is not as fast as making a voice call. The 911 center may ask you to make a voice call if you don't know your location.
What else to I need to know?
- Your phone must be able to send a text message. You can find out by texting a friend or family member to be certain.
- Text-to-911 is not a priority service. It can be delayed. You can't send more than 160 characters.
- If text-to-911 doesn't go through, you will get a 'bounce-back' message telling you to make a voice call to 911.
