Text to 9-1-1
CTCOG Regional 9-1-1 Program is pleased to announce the availability of Text to 9-1-1 service in our entire region, including Bell, Coryell, Hamilton, Lampasas, Milam, Mills, and San Saba Counties. Text to 9-1-1 is a service that allows citizens to send a text message directly to 9-1-1 for assistance in the event they are unable to make a voice call.
How to send a text to 9-1-1:
- In the recipient field, enter 911
- Compose your message
- Push “Send” button
- Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker
Below are a few things to know if you need to text 9-1-1:
- Text location information is not equal to current location
- As with all text messages, 9-1-1 messages can take longer to receive, can get out of order or may not be received.
- Text to 9-1-1 is not available if you are roaming.
- A text or data plan is required to place a text to 9-1-1.
- If texting to 9-1-1 is not available in your area, or is temporarily unavailable, you will receive a message indicating that texting 9-1-1 is not available and to contact 9-1-1 by other means.
- Photos and videos cannot be sent to 9-1-1 at this time.
- Text-to-9-1-1 cannot include more than one recipient; do not send your emergency text via group message or to anyone other than 9-1-1.
- Do not text and drive!
Text to 9-1-1 FAQs
What is “text to 9-1-1” technology?
Text to 9-1-1 is the ability to send a text message to 9-1-1 from a cell phone or handheld device.
Can I text to 9-1-1?
As of February 2018, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint customers can text to 9-1-1 in our region. You must have a plan that can send text messages.
What if I am outside our region?
If text to 9-1-1 is not available in your area, or is temporarily unavailable, you should receive a message indicating that text to 9-1-1 is not available and to contact 9-1-1 by other means.
When should I text 9-1-1?
Text 9-1-1 ONLY when it is not safe to place a voice 9-1-1 call.
- For an individual who is deaf or hard-of-hearing or for someone who is in a situation where they cannot talk.
- A medical emergency that renders the person incapable of speech.
ONLY text 9-1-1 in an emergency. It is a crime to text or call 9-1-1 with a false report. Prank texters can be located.
How do I text to 9-1-1?
A 9-1-1 call center should respond to the text. If a text to 9-1-1 message does NOT go through, you should receive a bounce back message from the wireless carrier stating that text to 9-1-1 is not available. If you get a bounce-back text, you must place a voice or relay call to 9-1-1.
Is there a charge when you text to 9-1-1?
Texting to 9-1-1 costs the same as the text charges you pay on all messages.
Can I send pictures or videos to 9-1-1?
Not at this time.
Can I send a text to another person the same time as 9-1-1?
No. Do not send your emergency text to anyone other than 9-1-1.
